CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - The UPEI Panthers women’s hockey team has inked Newfoundland and Labrador midget AAA scoring champion Jolena Gillard for the 2018-19 Atlantic University Sport season.
Bruce Donaldson, UPEI women’s head coach, said the Deer Lake, N.L., native is is a versatile goal scoring forward.
“Jolena will be a great addition to our line. She has great size, a strong touch around the net, and should be able to adjust to the AUS level quickly,” Donaldson said. “Jolena is one of those players who loves the game, taking advantage of every chance she can to be on the ice. We are excited and pleased Jolena has picked UPEI as her program of choice.”
Gillard was the top scorer and MVP for the Newfoundland midget AAA league, scoring more than 40 goals in the 2017–2018 season and helping her Western Warriors win the league championship.
She also played for the boys’ team at Elwood High School, recording 20 points in 20 games and was one of two girls, including her sister, on the boys’ team.
“I chose UPEI because I know it will give me the best education to pursue and help develop my career,” said Gillard, who has been admitted to UPEI’s arts program.
UPEI’s regular season begins Friday, Oct. 12, at home versus the St. Thomas Tommies. Game time is 7 p.m. at UPEI.
