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Kondas Shines in PWHL Debut with Sceptres
Jess Kondas was enjoying the festive season in Calgary when she received thrilling news that marked the start of a new chapter in her sports career. After spending an entire year on the reserve list for the Toronto Sceptres, the 24-year-old defender found a spot on the team, allowing her to finally make her debut in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL).
Making the most of her opportunity, Kondas scored the second goal for the Sceptres in a 4-2 victory against the Boston Fleet. “I’m just so grateful for this chance,” she expressed after the match. “It felt incredible to finally get on the ice and contribute.”
Kondas had initially planned to return to Toronto following her holiday visit but was called back after learning of a suspension handed to rookie Rylind MacKinnon due to an illegal check during a previous game. This opened the door for Kondas, leading to her signing a 10-day contract with the team.
“I’m really thrilled for her,” said Blayre Turnbull, captain of the Sceptres, who also contributed by scoring the game’s opening goal. “Being a reserve player is incredibly challenging, and Jess has demonstrated immense dedication by showing up every day, ready for her moment.”
Breaking the Streak
The Sceptres’ win also marked an end to their four-game losing streak, a much-needed boost as they look to regain momentum in the season. Head coach Troy Ryan praised both the team’s performance and Kondas’s readiness. “We knew Jess had the talent from her great training camp and commend her for staying prepared despite the challenges of being a reserve,” he noted.
With her hockey career rooted in Calgary, Kondas trained under two-time Olympian Carla MacLeod and secured a scholarship to Minnesota State. A talented athlete, she also excelled in softball during her younger years, being recognized as one of the nation’s top under-16 players. Nonetheless, her dedication to hockey has paid off, culminating in her being named to the all-academic conference team for all four years at Minnesota State.
“We’re all driven to play, and while the competition is fierce, you have to accept your role and be ready for when your opportunity comes,” Kondas reflected on her experiences in the league.
In her debut match, rookie Toronto goalie Raygan Kirk impressed with 26 saves, marking her first win in the PWHL. Teammates Emma Woods and Kali Flanagan contributed to the scoreline with Flanagan sealing the win with an empty-net goal late in the game, following a power-play goal by Hannah Bilka of Boston.
Looking Ahead
Kondas’s successful debut is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the resilience and talent emerging in women’s hockey today. As the Sceptres aim to build on this victory, all eyes will be on their next match and how the newest addition to the roster will continue to evolve within the team.
Source
globalnews.ca