Canada falls to USA in opening game of inaugural Women’s World Para Ice Hockey Challenge
The United States scored three goals in the second period and Gabby Graves-Wake and Hope Bevilhymer combined for the shutout as they beat rivals Canada 5-0 in Friday’s opener of the inaugural Women’s World Challenge four-team para ice hockey in Green Bay, Wis.
Kelsey DiClaudio scored twice for the Americans, while Catherin Faherty, Madison Eberhard and Katie Ladlie also added goals. The US, led the period 1-0 and 4-0 and outshot Canada 31-4 in front of a near-full crowd at Cornerstone Community Center.
Tracey Arnold, who has been part of Canada’s national team since 2019, played all 45 minutes while making 26 saves.
Kelsey Diclaudio met some of her biggest fans on day one of competition in Green Bay. ❤️
After getting to know them, Kelsey presented the little ones with signed pucks and an unforgettable keepsake. 🎁#WomensWorldChallenge | #ParaIceHockey | @Citi | @ParaSport pic.twitter.com/MPUe32pdWE
In other action, Team World beat Great Britain 5-1. Team World is made up of athletes from different nations.
Canada will play twice on Saturday as the round robin continues. They will take on Team World at 10 a.m. ET before taking on Great Britain at 1:30 p.m. ET.
The Americans take on Team World at 5 p.m. ET, then take on Great Britain at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The medal matches are on Sunday.
The event serves as an important stepping stone towards the establishment of a women’s world championship, with the ultimate goal of increasing female participation in para hockey and including the sport in the Paralympic Games.
Canadian officials Jane Ogilvie and Danielle Williams are on the tournament officiating staff.
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