Trailblazing Goalie: Taya Currie's Journey to the NCAA

Parkhill native Taya Currie is no stranger to making headlines. This trailblazing goaltender etched her name into history when she became the first female player selected in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) draft. The Sarnia Sting picked her up in the 14th round back in 2021 when she was just 16 years old.

While she didn't get to play any games in the OHL, Currie's journey was far from over. She carved out a career path that brought her to Providence College in Rhode Island. Unfortunately, a knee injury dashed her freshman season, but the silver lining is she’s back in full form and is set to hit the ice once again with the Friars this fall.

Reflecting on her monumental OHL draft moment, Currie said being drafted was an incredible experience, but her transition to women's hockey has its unique perks. Her years on AAA boys’ teams in minor hockey honed her speed, agility, and reflexes, making her a formidable presence on any team.

Sarnia Sting's general manager, Dylan Seca, also weighed in on Currie's development. He acknowledged that while she was close to playing in the OHL, her noteworthy shift to women’s hockey has opened new doors and opportunities just as exciting, if not more.

Currie's anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable. After a grueling recovery from a torn ACL, she now feels stronger than ever. She candidly expressed that although she missed an entire season due to the injury, the setback only fueled her drive and resilience.

But Currie's ambitions go beyond just playing for Providence. She’s working at the Hockey Studio in London, Ontario, training young goalies and running an all-girls goaltender camp. Here, she's an inspiration, with many young girls aspiring to follow in her footsteps.

Even off the ice, Currie made the most of her first year at university in the States. She enjoyed her academic pursuits and built strong bonds with her teammates and coaches, who were pivotal during her recovery phase.

The next aim on her horizon? A professional hockey career.