Strength in unity: Panthers built to turn lessons into playoff run

By Thomas Becker

They were a single point away. One bounce, one shot, one moment could have swung the UPEI Panthers into the playoffs last season.

Instead, a 3-2 loss to St. Thomas in the finale ended their late charge, leaving the group hungry and determined to finish the job in 2025-26.

That razor-thin margin has been on the minds of players and coaches all offseason. For head coach Sean Fisher, it reinforced both the team's potential and the importance of consistent execution.

"The second half showed me what this group can do when we play the right way," Fisher said. "For us to win, the fundamentals have to be sharp, we need to stay on the attack, shoot with purpose, and bring toughness every night. Those four areas are what we need to carry forward from last season."

A strong recruiting class 

One reason for optimism is the arrival of eight new players who are already making their mark. More than just hockey talent, Fisher said this group is helping set the tone for the entire program. 

"Most importantly, the eight new faces are great people," Fisher said. "They care about others, they work incredibly hard, and they are driving our culture in the right direction." 

The infusion of character and competitiveness is expected to blend well with a veteran core hungry to take the next step. 

Scoring by committee

If there's one question mark for the Panthers, it's where the goals will come from. Fisher expects a balanced offence that's spread across the lineup, making it unpredictable and difficult to plan for.

"Scoring will be key, that's no secret," Fisher said. "Our veterans need to set the tone, not just by putting pucks in the net, but through their daily practice habits, the way they generate offence, and the style of play they bring every day. 

Among those poised for breakout seasons are seniors Ashley McCutcheon, Kaiya Maracle, Chiara Esposito, and Chloe McCabe—players who have embraced both leadership and production responsibilities.

Assistant captain Esposito echoed her coach's sentiment, noting the sting of last year's near miss has sharpened the group's focus. 

"It was tough getting so close last year and just falling short," she said. "Despite that, I think it lit a fire under all of us. It taught us that every moment counts, whether it's the first shift of the period or the final minutes of a must-win game. Going into this season, we know how important it is to stay locked in and consistent from Day 1."

Defence and goaltending as anchors

While offence remains a work in progress, the Panthers' back end gives them stability and confidence. The goaltending tandem of Sarah Forsythe and Erin Cabaday returns as one of the team's most important assets.

"Goaltending is a strength," Fisher said. "Sarah and Erin can both get the job done at this level and can be difference makers every night. It allows us to get up the ice a bit and think offensive zone." 

In front of them, the defence corps is anchored by veterans Orianna MacNeil, Anjali Simms, and Sarah Fraser. Fisher praised their toughness and intelligence, noting that team defence has been a point of emphasis for the past two years and has developed into a defining strength.

Strength in unity

After coming up a point short last year, the Panthers enter this season with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove. Fisher knows his roster is smaller than most across the country, but he sees that as an advantage—more opportunity for everyone and a tighter group bound by a shared purpose. 

"This team is here for a reason," he said. "They've got the character and leadership to drive us where we want to go."

The Panthers know exactly what's at stake. With veteran leadership, fresh talent, and a reliable backbone in goal and on defence, this is a group built for the playoff fight. 

"This year feels different," Esposito said. "There's real unity and accountability in our group, and everyone is pushing each other to be better. We know what it takes, and we're committed to doing it together."