On Wednesday, May 20, the Montreal Victoire triumphed in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) by defeating the Ottawa Charge 4-0, claiming their first Walter Cup title in an electrifying final. Among the victorious players were Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey, who not only celebrated as teammates but also as newlyweds, having married in September 2024.
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As the match concluded, ecstasy filled the ice. Poulin, 35, who played an instrumental role in the win, embraced her wife and fellow team member, Stacey, 32. The couple shared a touching moment, their joy evident as they hugged and smiled broadly during the trophy presentation—a celebration made notably special by their personal connection.
Historically, the Victoire’s journey to the championship has been marked by grit and determination. The team, under Poulin’s leadership, navigated through challenging playoff matches, including a heart-wrenching defeat to the United States in the Olympic gold medal match earlier this year. Poulin’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament earned her the MVP honour, solidifying her reputation as one of the most accomplished players in women’s hockey history.
Stacey recently opened up about their private relationship, explaining that the couple had chosen to remain out of the public eye until recently. “We’re relatively private people, so we didn’t really feel the need to share that side of our life,” she said in an interview with The Athletic. The dual roles of being teammates and partners often raised questions about their public relationship, especially with the pressures that come with being part of an elite team.
Their romance became public in May 2023, when Stacey shared a heartfelt Instagram video revealing her engagement to Poulin, accompanied by the caption “You•Me•Oui•Forever.” This announcement picturesque embodied their commitment to each other, and the couple’s wedding a year later was a natural progression of their journey together.
As the team celebrated their championship win, words of praise for Poulin flowed in from teammates and sports commentators alike. Erin Ambrose, a defender for the team, remarked on Poulin’s remarkable leadership and skills, stating, “She’s the most unbelievable hockey player and the best hockey player to ever play this game. She deserves this more than anybody in the world.”
Abby Roque, a forward who contributed to the scoring in the finals, reflected on the team’s resilience and camaraderie. “Just so much love for this group. I mean the things we have battled through these playoffs, it was just out of this world,” she expressed, summarising the emotions surrounding their victory. The trophy, a sterling silver piece crafted by Tiffany & Co, was a sweet reward for all their hard work.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Victoire franchise, establishing them as a formidable force in women’s hockey. The celebrations are expected to continue, invoking pride among fans and players alike.
With the Walter Cup now secured, the focus will inevitably shift to the future. Both Poulin and Stacey are determined to continue their success together, not only as athletes but as partners in life. The path they have forged highlights both personal joy and professional achievements, making for a story that resonates deeply within the sports community. As they embark on the next chapter, the couple remains an inspiring symbol of love and dedication in the realm of women’s sports.