The Professional Women's Hockey League handed down a significant disciplinary decision on Monday, suspending Minnesota Frost forward Britta Curl-Salemme for one game and fining her $250. The punishment stems from a hit on Kaitlin Willoughby and an incident involving Abby Roque, where Curl-Salemme was cited for "pulling Abby Roque's facial protector, sending her to the ice with a degree of violence."
For the Frost, this is more than just a disciplinary footnote—it's a strategic blow. Captain Kendall Coyne Schofield didn't mince words when addressing the suspension after Monday's practice in Verdun. "It's a tremendous loss," she said, acknowledging the void left by a player who has been "a huge part of this team." The Frost now face the challenge of regrouping for game two without one of their key contributors.
Head coach Ken Klee, however, is no stranger to navigating these waters. This marks Curl-Salemme's fourth one-game suspension since last season and her sixth instance of supplemental discipline overall. "The league made the call and we're just moving on," Klee stated calmly. "We'll be excited to get her back for game three." He emphasized the depth of his roster, noting, "It's a loss, but we've dealt with it before. Good thing we have a lot of good players, and it gives other players some opportunity."
Across the ice, the Montreal Victoire had a different perspective. News of the suspension broke during their practice, and players were quick to share their thoughts. Forward Laura Stacey, who learned of the decision just minutes after stepping off the ice, didn't hide her feelings. "Obviously, we weren't necessarily happy with the hit on Willow (Kaitlin Willoughby)," she said. "I think you could see that from the reaction of all the players on the ice and on the bench." Stacey expressed relief that Willoughby is okay and back on the ice, adding, "At the end of the day, I'm glad the league made a decision."
As the Frost prepare to fill a "big hole" in their lineup for game two, the Victoire are focused on capitalizing on the opportunity. With the series now carrying added tension, all eyes are on how both teams adjust—one missing a star player, the other looking to turn discipline into momentum.