In a storybook moment for local talent, the Vancouver Goldeneyes secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the visiting Ottawa Charge on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, powered by goals from two hometown players.
Dream Come True for Richmond's Chan
The night belonged to 22-year-old forward Katie Chan from Richmond. After starting the season overseas and earning a roster spot in training camp, Chan etched her name into the scoresheet in dramatic fashion. At the 7:50 mark of the first period, a shot from North Vancouver's Hannah Miller was stopped by Ottawa goalie Gwyneth Philips, but the rebound popped into the air. Chan, stationed at the side of the net, batted the puck out of mid-air for her first-ever PWHL goal.
"It was a really surreal moment, for sure," Chan said after the game. "It was definitely a dream come true. To be able to be home and to score my first goal really meant the world to me." She admitted the ensuing celebration was a blur, saying she "blacked out because the fans went crazy."
Gardiner Seals the Deal for Vancouver
The Goldeneyes' insurance marker came early in the second period from another local standout. Jenn Gardiner of Surrey intercepted a pass in the neutral zone, powered past Ottawa defender Rory Guilday, and fired a shot that found the back of the net off the crossbar. It was Gardiner's second goal of the season, both scored on home ice in Vancouver.
For Gardiner, playing in front of a home crowd filled with friends, family, and young fans is a special privilege that highlights the growth of women's hockey. "It's pretty special," she noted. "Just to know the future of female hockey in B.C. as a whole, and where it’s going, it’s going to be an incredible future."
Campbell Stands Tall in Net
Goaltender Kristen Campbell was a pillar for the Goldeneyes, turning aside 33 shots to record her first win with her new team. Acquired from Toronto in June, the 28-year-old netminder was stellar. "It’s been incredible, honestly. I’m having so much fun here," Campbell said, praising the team's supportive environment. She also highlighted her strong partnership with Vancouver's primary starter, Emerance Maschmeyer, stating their mutual support creates a "super strong" goaltending duo.
Head coach Brian Idalski praised Chan's rapid development and reliability since making the team. "She’s someone who’s earned my trust quickly just because she’s such a smart player all over the ice and plays a good 200-foot game for us," Idalski said.
The win improved Vancouver's record to 3-3-0-0, while Ottawa's losing streak extended to three games. Charge head coach Carla MacLeod acknowledged the tight nature of the league, where the outcome can swing on any given night despite respectful competition between all teams.
The victory, fueled by local talent achieving childhood dreams, marks a significant and emotional moment in the early history of the Vancouver Goldeneyes franchise.
