Former Mount Academy Saints trio earn spots on UPEI Women’s Hockey roster
After a successful showing at training camp, three former Mount Academy Saints—Rachel Richards, Orianna MacNeil, and Kierra St. Peter—have earned their way on to the UPEI Women’s Hockey roster.
“We all took notice of their skill, work ethic, habits, and level of play,” said head coach Sean Fisher. “Where they are at in their development is a testament to the program they come from, and the coaching Kenny MacDougall provides at the Mount Academy. I think all three will be strong U SPORTS players for the foreseeable future.”
Richards is a polished defender who does many things well, including her ability to play both the left and right sides. The 17-year-old New Dominion, Prince Edward Island native is aggressive and gritty in front of the net and likes to get off low shots for her forwards to put away on offence.
“There aren’t a lot of holes in her game. She skates well, makes good hard plays with the puck, and defends at an elite level,” Fisher said. “Even as a rookie, she will be counted on to play big minutes in our lineup this year.” MacNeil joins the Panthers as a defender with some offensive flare to her game. The 18-year-old from Mabou Harbour, Nova Scotia, is creative in the offensive zone and isn’t afraid to set up a teammate or put the puck on net herself.
“Ori is an interesting player. She is wildly creative, has an elite shot, and just makes hockey plays,” Fisher said. “She’s well liked in the room and brings lots of energy to the ice each day.”
Rounding out the trio is St. Peter, a gritty forward from Perth-Andover, New Brunswick, who skates very well and loves to put the puck in the net.
“She’s aggressive, has a sneaky good shot with a deceptive release, and works incredibly hard,” Fisher said of the 18-year-old. “Those are all things I value in hockey players, and I see Kierra fitting in well with this program.”
