Haldimand’s Grace Taylor Eyes National Final as Holly Lesage Battles at ACHA Championships

The spotlight keeps getting brighter for local hockey talent.

Haldimand’s Grace Taylor and the University of Michigan-Dearborn have punched their ticket to the semifinals at the ACHA Women’s Division 1 National Championships, continuing an impressive run against some of the top programs in North America.

Michigan-Dearborn opened the tournament with a gritty 2-1 win over Minot before following it up with a dominant 5-0 victory over Jamestown. Now, they prepare for their biggest test yet — a semifinal matchup against Liberty.

(story continues below ad)

For Taylor, the team’s success has come down to energy, discipline, and a commitment to their identity.

“Our team has brought so much energy on and off the bench,” she said. “We have capitalized on our scoring opportunities and we have not let off the gas pedal no matter who we are playing.”

That mindset will be critical as they take on a Liberty team that has already proven its strength in the tournament.

“We need to continue to bring the intensity we’ve had all through playoffs and the last two games,” Taylor said. “We need to continue to play our game, using each other and winning the small battles.”

Back home in Haldimand, it’s another proud moment seeing one of their own competing for a national title.

At the same tournament, Norfolk County’s Holly Lesage was also representing her community with Niagara University.

After opening with a loss to Liberty, Niagara bounced back with a strong 4-1 win over Grand Canyon University. While the early loss ultimately kept them from advancing, the experience left a lasting impression.

“It was a great experience,” Lesage said. “The hockey is really fast and exciting. The atmosphere is loud and the competition is next level.”

Having competed at the Division 2 national level the year prior, Lesage saw firsthand the jump in competition.

“I was at the ACHA D2 nationals last year and being here at the ACHA D1 nationals is a massive step above and I was so excited to be there.”

For both players, the tournament represents more than just wins and losses. It is a chance to compete at the highest level, test themselves against elite competition, and represent their hometowns on a national stage.

One is still chasing a championship.

The other leaves with experience that will fuel the next opportunity.

Either way, it is another strong showing for athletes from Haldimand and Norfolk proving they can compete with anyone, anywhere.

Follow Hometown Sports for score updates all weekend long as Grace competes for a National title!

Stay Connected with Hometown Sports Network

To stay up to date with local sports stories, athlete features and game coverage, follow Hometown Sports Network on Facebook and Instagram and visit www.hometownsportsnetwork.ca.

Want your team featured? Send us a DM or email [email protected] and help us continue telling the stories that make local sports special.