Heading into the next season of Carleton Ravens women’s hockey, the players that succeed Sadie Wegner as team captain will have a tough act to follow. One of the most energetic and determined players to have ever donned the Ravens jersey, Wegner played with the heart of a lion.
Possessed by a quiet yet powerful dignity, she was consistently entrenched at or near the top of numerous offensive statistical categories for the Ravens. Humble about her high level of motivation, it was testament to her strong leadership.
“I am just one of the players and I still have to go out. Even if it is to break a shutout, your line pushes to try to get the other lines going. You try to be game changers.”
Rewarded as the Ravens Offensive Player of the Year for two consecutive seasons, she first rose to prominence as a product of the PWHL’s Ottawa Lady Senators. Having played for Lady Sens head coach Luke Richardson, the former NHLer provided the guidance that would lead her to a proud career.
“Being named Offensive Player of the Year was great! My on-ice performance reflected that a bit although I felt a little more pressure this year and at times it got the best of me.”
Being recognized as team captain for her senior season, it was a fitting honor that truly commemorated Wegner’s hockey odyssey with the Ravens. With fellow fifth-year player Jasmine Levesque also recognized as an alternate captain, it only enhanced the honor of the captaincy for her.
“It definitely felt good (being named captain). I had been here for five years and was named the assistant captain before. To be named captain this year was really nice. Being captain did not change me personally. It was always important to stay a leader on and off the ice.”
In a career that has seen Wegner face off against national squads such as Germany and Norway, her fifth season allowed her the opportunity to play the U18 squads of Canada and Switzerland, along with a pair of CWHL clubs (Montreal, Toronto). Despite such remarkable opponents, the favorite moment of her career not only has a local flavor to it, it also dates back to her rookie campaign of 2010-11. A match against the archrival Ottawa Gee-Gees resulted in a career milestone that she reflected upon most fondly.
“The first time I ever scored was pretty cool. I believe it was in my third-ever game (for the Ravens). The whole team was more excited than I was.”
A remarkable team player, the Ravens were like a second family to Wegner. On Senior Night 2015, it would serve as the opportunity for her two families to come together and honor her career. A 5th year player graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, she skated in 104 career games for the Ravens. Accompanied by her mother, Tammy, father, Mark and brother Colton.
“Having them there meant a lot. They have been my support for five years, and they are very special to me. My mom always tried to make every home game. On senior night, it was nice to have my brother Colton there. He is my best friend.
My time here was great, especially being the captain in my last year. I will miss it all. I have not thought about where I will play next year, but I have thought about maybe getting into refereeing.”
Despite the fact that the final two seasons of her Ravens career were defined by rebuilding phases, compounded by the frustration of losing, almost obligatory during such times, Wegner’s enthusiasm and high energy set a positive example. Emphasizing pride, such a strong set of values is one that the younger players who had the privilege to play with Wegner should emulate.
“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”
Photo credit: Valerie Wutti
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