Ottawa Charge’s head coach, Carla MacLeod, has received a breast cancer diagnosis, as confirmed by the team on Sunday. In a statement released by the PWHL club, MacLeod expressed the initial emotional challenge upon hearing the diagnosis but reassured everyone that she remains positive about her upcoming journey. She acknowledged the exceptional medical team supporting her and shared her confidence in the treatment plan they have developed.
Despite commencing treatment this week, MacLeod has affirmed her intention to resume coaching the Charge during this season and lead the Czech women’s hockey team at the Winter Olympics in February. However, she will be absent for the upcoming game on December 2, with assistant coach Haley Irwin stepping in.
MacLeod, an accomplished two-time Olympic gold medalist in women’s hockey and coach of the Charge since the PWHL’s inaugural 2023-24 season, will receive unwavering support from both the team and the league throughout her treatment, affirmed Charge general manager Mike Hirshfeld. He praised MacLeod’s strength, resilience, and optimism, expressing confidence in her ability to approach this challenging chapter with the same determination she exemplifies in all endeavors.