Women’s hockey forward Kelsey Thomson’s two goals and one assist sparked the Gaels to a 3-0 win over the Windsor Lancers on Saturday. The next day, Thomson notched an assist to help the Gaels down the Western Mustangs 4-1.
With these two wins, the 18-5 Gaels have now secured second place in the OUA and a first round playoff bye.
A self-described hard-shooting power forward, Thomson itted to being in a scoring slump prior to the Windsor game.
“Our line hadn’t been producing,” she said. “We knew Windsor was going to come out flying because they are fighting for the last playoff spot. My line talked about getting back to basics and making simple plays.” Thomson, a fourth year Phys Ed. major, grew up on a dairy farm in Martintown, Ont. and was pushed into hockey by her two older at age five. She has been one of the Gaels most consistent goal scorers over the past three seasons, recording 44 goals in 79 games. Her 29 points this season leave her fourth in the OUA scoring race. With only two games remaining in the regular season, Thomson said she recognizes the importance of timely scoring.
“It was just a matter of getting that first goal. It’s a good time to be peaking right before going into playoffs.” Thomson said head coach Matt Holmberg prepares the Gaels well for the pressure of back-to-back weekend games.
“A lot of the fourth-year players, I find, have been blossoming under Matt,” she said.
Thomson said the increased confidence she’s gained from her years with the Gaels is the reason she’s developed from a third-line checker into one of the top goal-scorers in the province.
Thomson said the Gaels will need to play effectively as a team to have success in the playoffs.
Her focus on team chemistry and organization is fitting considering she’s applied to teachers college and plans on getting into coaching after graduating from Queen’s.
1. Who controls the music in the dressing room?
The Twins [Brittany and Morgan McHaffie].
2. What reality show do you most want to go on?
The Buried Life.
3. Team’s favourite movie to watch on the bus?
Miracle.
4. Ovechkin or Crosby?
Crosby, easy.
5. UFC or Boxing?
Boxing.
6. Favorite Comedian?
Jeff Dunham.
7. What did you think of Avatar?
Haven’t seen it.
8. Best late-night food spot in Kingston?
Pizza Pizza.
9. Sport you most want to try?
Bobsled.
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