Carla MacLeod, the head coach of the Ottawa Charge, has revealed her battle with breast cancer, drawing an overwhelming and supportive reaction from the hockey community. MacLeod expressed her gratitude for the kindness shown towards her since sharing her diagnosis. As a two-time Olympic gold medalist in women’s hockey, MacLeod has been coaching the Charge since the league’s inception in the 2023-24 season.
Due to her diagnosis, MacLeod will travel to Calgary to meet with her doctors, causing her to miss an upcoming game against the Minnesota Frost. However, she anticipates returning to the team later in the week. Despite her health challenges, MacLeod is set to coach the Czech women’s hockey team at the upcoming Winter Olympics in February.
MacLeod emphasized the importance of early detection and regular check-ups, urging everyone to prioritize their health. She remains optimistic about her treatment and is eager to resume her coaching duties once she recovers. In her absence, assistant coach Haley Irwin will lead the team.
The players of the Charge received the news of MacLeod’s diagnosis with warmth and solidarity, describing themselves as a family that stands united in support of their coach. They plan to use her absence as motivation to perform well in their upcoming game. Brianne Jenner, currently leading the PWHL points race, expressed the team’s collective wish for MacLeod’s well-being, highlighting her resilience and positivity in the face of adversity.
The players commended MacLeod for her courage and unwavering spirit, acknowledging the impact her diagnosis had on the team while also drawing inspiration from her strength and determination.