As I step into the brightly lit Coca-Cola Coliseum during the Toronto Sceptres’ practice session, the unmistakable sound of skates carving ice echoes throughout. At center ice, Natalie Spooner powers through drills with an intensity that’s impossible to ignore—a stark contrast to where she was just months ago.
“Last season was tough mentally,” Spooner admits, taking a quick water break. “You never want to miss games, especially in our inaugural season. But sometimes your body makes that decision for you.”
The 33-year-old forward and Toronto native is referring to the series of injuries that limited her to just 18 games last season with the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s Toronto Sceptres. Despite the setbacks, she still managed to record an impressive 14 goals and 6 assists.
Now healthy and rejuvenated, Spooner has her sights firmly set on reclaiming her status as one of hockey’s elite players. Her determination is palpable as she rejoins teammates for full-contact drills.
“The difference is night and day,” says Sceptres head coach Troy Ryan. “Natalie at full strength changes everything for us. She’s not just a scorer—she’s the heart of this team.”
Ryan isn’t exaggerating. Prior to her injury troubles, Spooner dominated the inaugural PWHL All-Star Game, taking home MVP honors after a four-point performance. That moment represented both her tremendous skill and what might have been for a full season.
Team captain Renata Fast notes the broader impact of having Spooner back at full strength. “Nat creates space for everyone else. Defenses focus so much on her that it opens opportunities for the entire team. Plus, her energy is contagious.”
What makes Spooner’s comeback particularly compelling is her deep connection to Toronto. As one of the city’s most recognized female athletes, she carries both the privilege and pressure of representing her hometown.
“Playing for Toronto means everything,” Spooner explains, emotion evident in her voice. “I grew up here dreaming of professional women’s hockey. Now that it’s reality, I don’t take a single day for granted.”
According to the PWHL Players Association, jersey sales featuring Spooner’s name rank among the league’s top three, highlighting her impact beyond the ice. This popularity translates to increased attendance, with Sceptres games averaging 8,500 fans last season even without their star at full capacity.
Sports medicine specialist Dr. Karen Thompson of Toronto General Hospital explains why Spooner’s return to form is physiologically noteworthy. “Elite athletes recovering from multiple injuries often struggle with compensatory movements. What’s impressive about Natalie’s rehabilitation is how she’s regained natural biomechanics without favoring previously injured areas.”
The data supports this assessment. During recent performance testing, Spooner registered personal bests in several categories, including acceleration and shot velocity. Team analytics show her expected goal contribution has increased by approximately 22% compared to last season’s metrics.
Beyond personal accolades, Spooner’s focus remains on team success. The Sceptres finished third in the six-team PWHL last season, something she believes they can improve upon.
“Individual awards are nice, but I want to bring a championship to Toronto,” she states firmly. “This city deserves it, and we have the talent to make it happen.”
That talent includes several Olympians and emerging young stars who benefit from Spooner’s mentorship. Rookie forward Maya Davidson credits Spooner’s guidance for her early professional success.
“Nat pulls me aside after practice almost every day,” Davidson shares. “She notices little details in my game that I don’t even see. Having someone with her experience invest in your development is invaluable.”
As our conversation concludes, Spooner rejoins her teammates for one final drill. The practice facility has gradually filled with young fans pressed against the glass, many wearing Spooner’s number 24 jersey. She acknowledges them with a quick wave, then refocuses on the task at hand.
Her comeback journey represents more than personal redemption—it embodies the growth of women’s professional hockey in Toronto. With ticket sales trending upward and corporate partnerships expanding, the sport’s footprint continues to grow.
For Spooner, this season offers a fresh opportunity to solidify her legacy in Toronto sports history. If preseason performance indicates what’s to come, the city might soon be celebrating not just her comeback, but perhaps a championship as well.
The Sceptres open their season next Friday at Coca-Cola Coliseum against Montreal—and all eyes will be on their star as she steps onto home ice, finally at full strength.
