March 8, 2024, is International Women’s Day, a global day in which the world celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across the world.
The Ontario Hockey League takes great pride in recognizing the remarkable contributions of women throughout our League, celebrating their unwavering dedication, leadership, and achievements both on and off the ice. In recent years, we’ve witnessed a significant rise in the presence of women assuming pivotal roles across various facets of the OHL, including hockey operations, business operations, and in a multitude of other capacities that enhance the League.
This year, we are spotlighting five women who are making significant contributions within the OHL and its member teams.
LINDSAY EASTWOOD
Manager, Communications and Team Services | Kitchener Rangers
What is your favourite part about being a member of the Rangers organization?
My favourite part about being a member of the Rangers organization is the sense of camaraderie and teamwork that is at all levels of the club. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by such passionate and driven people, and it creates a really positive environment that fosters personal and professional growth. Not to mention being part of a team with such a rich history and strong community ties is very rewarding.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
On the ice winning the Isobel Cup with the Toronto Six this past season has to be at the top of the list. And off the ice I feel like I am just getting started professionally so I am proud and honoured to work for the Kitchener Rangers as I know it is no easy feat to be hired by this prestigious OHL club.
How do you use your experience as a former hockey player in your role as Kitchener’s Manager of Communications and Team Services?
My experience as a former hockey player has been invaluable and has allowed me to bring a unique perspective to my role. My time playing the game at a competitive level has given me a deep understanding of the challenges and demands that come with being an athlete. I use my experience from the different organizations I played for at both the university and professional levels as examples of best practices that I can apply to the Team Services side of the role. As for the Communications side of the role I depend on my deep understanding of the sport and its culture to formulate fitting messages that go out on socials and the website. All in all, whether it’s creating engaging social media content, creating a road trip itinerary, or managing player appearances, my experience as a former player helps me understand what resonates with the players and their fans and how to best represent them.
What advice do you have for the younger generation of women who are looking to build a career in sports?
For young women aspiring to build a career in sports embrace your passion and let it drive your work ethic. Never say no, no matter how insignificant the task might be it may help you find your niche. Confidence is key, especially in a field that may be traditionally male dominated, just trust your abilities and believe in yourself. Lastly, remember why you love sports and stay passionate about your career. This passion will drive you through challenges and make the journey rewarding.
LYNDSIE BAXTER
Manager, Marketing and Community Engagement | Sarnia Sting
What is your favourite part about being a member of the Sting organization?
My favourite part about being a member of the Sting organization is the motivation and encouragement I receive on a daily basis. No idea is too big. I am constantly encouraged to dream and think outside the box. They believe in me and my abilities on the days when self doubt starts to creep in. I have never once had to ask myself if I’m “good enough” or “do I belong here?” Even if I did, my co-workers wouldn’t allow it. They’ve created a culture of mutual respect and care that is sometimes hard to find in this industry. The Sting organization welcomed me with open arms and said “do your thing.” It’s a creative freedom and trust that is beyond rewarding to have after working to find a seat at the table for so long.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
A professional achievement that I am most proud of is having a video segment that I shot and edited highlighting Steven Stamkos and retiring his jersey be featured across Canada on all major platforms. I shot this at a time when I had decided that sports may no longer be the path for me and was focusing my efforts on producing and news reporting. The video was picked up by local as well as national news outlets. The Sarnia Sting, Ontario Hockey League and Canadian Hockey League also promoted and featured the special on their social media platforms and website landing pages. Having this happen re-ignited my passion for sport and proved there is a place for me to continue a successful career in hockey while combining my love for storytelling and video creation.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your role as Sarnia’s Manager of Marketing and Community Engagement?
The most fulfilling aspect of my role as the Manager of Marketing and Community Engagement is not only watching my ideas come to life on a grand scale but also being the one to share an inside look at what truly makes this team and organization so special. Every detail matters. Most people assume it’s the product on the ice that keeps fans engaged and coming back but I know it goes far beyond that. It’s my job to show just how generous, positive and hard-working this team is. Every school visit, every community appearance, every charitable donation- truly speaks to the character and culture our team is dedicated to creating. I love meeting each and every member of StingNation. It means so much to me to shake the hands of our season ticket holders and capture the smiles on our little fans faces. That is the part of this role that is so fulfilling. Showing that the value of the Sarnia Sting goes far beyond the score on the clock.
What advice do you have for the younger generation of women who are looking to build a career in sports?
To the younger generation of women who are looking to build a career in sports, please don’t stop. There was a time in my life growing up where there was little to no female representation and picturing myself in this industry seemed unobtainable. Thankfully that is no longer the case! Find what fuels you, find an industry example to mirror, set a goal and make yourself open to all avenues to get there. This industry is competitive. It’s miscellaneous, exciting and so rewarding but you need to stand out amongst the crowd. Diversify your skillset. I can’t stress that enough! You should constantly be wanting to learn, expand and grow- especially if it means going outside your comfort zone. Working in sports means wearing MANY hats. Don’t limit yourself to the opportunities you take because you may not see direct correspondence to your end goal or “relevance”. NO job is too small. All experience is applicable if you’re willing to open your mind and take on every challenge you’re met with. If anything, be the example that little you would have wanted to see in this industry. Remember that your place here is warranted and deserving.
SAMANTHA SKENE
Skating Coach | Sudbury Wolves
What is your favourite part about being a member of the Wolves organization?
Sudbury has such a great community; the fan support is incredible. The staff and players are also very supportive, I feel very lucky to be apart of the Sudbury Wolves family.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
This past summer I had the opportunity to coach at the Pittsburgh Penguins Development Camp. I felt very proud to be there, and having the opportunity to work with the prospects and staff.
As Sudbury’s Skating Coach, what is the most fulfilling part of the job?
I love getting to watch the Wolves play, I think I’m the loudest person at those games! It is very rewarding watching the boys grow and develop as players.
What advice do you have for the younger generation of women who are looking to build a career in sports similar to yours?
Put in the time, put in the work – hard work never goes unnoticed. Study, shadow, and never stop learning. Believe in yourself and what you do, and don’t be afraid to share those beliefs. Have confidence and stand up for yourself. Not everyone is going to agree with you always – and that’s ok. Enjoy the journey.
LACEY SENUK
OHL Official, Referee | Ontario Hockey League
You had the opportunity to officiate a Women in Sports Game (Flint), and will be officiating Kitchener’s on the 8th for International Women’s Day. How would you describe that experience?
It’s truly an honour to represent the OHL as a female official in these experiences and share a bit of my story and career path, in hopes of inspiring the next female official. I think representation is so important in sport and hockey specifically. To have the Flint Firebirds and Kitchener Rangers holding events that promote women in sports and honouring International Women’s Day shows these organizations have strong values towards equality and to be asked to be a part of it as an official is pretty special as one of four female officials in the league.
What is your favourite part about being an Official in the Ontario Hockey League?
My favourite part of being an Official in the OHL, there are a few, to start its the friendships you build with the other officials throughout the league, you tend to spend a lot of time with the crew you are working a game with, between the drive to the rink, the time in the locker room before/during/after, the game itself and the drive home, you get to know everyone as more than just an official and hear about their life experiences and hockey experiences. I think it’s also a lot of fun to get to be on the ice with the next NHL star and see the players grow and develop over the course of the season or even from the past season.
What led you into wanting to become an OHL Official?
After the Beijing Olympics, I wasn’t sure what was next in my officiating journey, but I knew I wanted to keep skating as I still had a desire to train and push myself to see if I could get to the next level (whatever that looked like). Luckily it was the first year that they held the OHL combine and I had a few people reach out and tell me to apply. I went to the combine, had a blast, was exhausted, but got to meet some of the key individuals within the OHL Officials group, from there I was invited to Training Camp and given a couple of preseason games and eventually getting hired. I am so fortunate to this opportunity to continue to challenge myself and develop and work with this great group.
What advice do you have for the younger generation of women who are looking to build a professional career as an Official?
The sky is quite literally the limit, there are so many opportunities for females in the officiating world, with more and more being exposed every day, and thankfully we have had some great trail blazers ahead of us paving the way to make it easier for the next generation to come, it is my hope that I am leaving a trail for the next female to walk on with ease and continue to push the limits as to what is possible for females. With the new PWHL league taking form – down the road there may be opportunities to make officiating your full time career choice which would be pretty fantastic for that group of officials! But I will say, if you want to do something, don’t wait for someone to give it to you or hope they will reach out and help, invest in yourself to better yourself and jump at every opportunity presented, even if you feel comfortable or uncertain of the situation. It’s in the uncomfortable and uncertain times that we truly grow as a person and discover that we can do hard things!
NATASHA LEGACÉ
Athletic Therapist | Peterborough Petes
What is your favourite part about being a member of the Petes organization?
We have some great staff that are like family, and make it easy and fun to come to the rink/work every day. The players are pretty cool too!
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
Winning the OHL Championship (and pretty sure I am the first female Athletic Therapist to win it as well), as well as being the first female Athletic Therapist in Petes history. Breaking gender barriers!
What is the most fulfilling part of pursuing your Athletic Therapist career with the Petes?
Watching the impact we have as Therapists towards the players and their careers. Seeing them coming back from injury confident and becoming successful. Knowing you helped them get to where they are and helped keep them healthy and on the ice playing the sport they love. That has to be the most fulfilling feeling.
What advice do you have for the younger generation of women who are looking to build a career similar to yours?
Keep pushing for what you want. It’s not easy being a female in a male dominant sport (it is when you have a great support system around you) but there are many struggles. You need to be confident in your skills, and yourself.
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