Three standout players from the Professional Women's Hockey League's (PWHL) Ottawa Charge have earned a coveted spot on the Canadian national team roster for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. The announcement, made on January 9, 2026, sees the Charge's leadership and skill recognized on the international stage as Canada prepares to defend its Olympic gold medal.
Ottawa's Olympic Contingent
The Ottawa Charge players selected are forward Brianne Jenner, alongside teammates Marie-Philip Poulin and goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens. Jenner, who wears number 19 for the Charge, has been a pivotal force for the team. Her clutch performance was on full display recently when she scored a shootout goal against Boston Fleet goaltender Aerin Frankel during a game on Saturday, December 27, 2025.
This selection underscores the depth of talent within the Ottawa franchise, which is contributing significantly to the national program. The trio will join other PWHL stars from across the league, including five players from the Montreal Victoire, as highlighted in the broader roster announcement.
The Road to Milan 2026
Hockey Canada unveiled the full women's hockey team roster tasked with the mission of defending the Olympic title won previously. The team is a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent, all currently honing their skills in the professional environment of the PWHL.
The selection process considers current form, leadership, and past performance under pressure. For players like Jenner, Poulin, and Desbiens, their daily competition in the PWHL provides the perfect preparation for the high-stakes environment of the Olympic Games.
Charge Pride and National Ambition
Having three players selected from a single PWHL team is a point of immense pride for the Ottawa Charge organization and its fans. It signals the team's strength and its role as a key development ground for elite Canadian talent.
The 2026 Olympic Games in Milan will be the ultimate test for this assembled squad. With the gold medal from the last Olympics to defend, the pressure and expectations are immense. The integration of players from teams like the Ottawa Charge, who compete fiercely against each other in the PWHL, is expected to create a cohesive and battle-ready Team Canada.
As the team begins its final preparations, the focus for Jenner and her Charge teammates will shift from club success to national glory, carrying the hopes of a hockey-loving nation intent on remaining atop the Olympic podium.
