Olympic medalists train new generation of female hockey players in Sudbury

Homegrown Hockey Stars Camp has taken over the northern hockey academy in Sudbury this week.

Olympic Gold medalist Tessa Bonhomme is hosting the camp alongside several guests, bringing elite skills and player development to girls from across the north.

In the next few days, 45 girls from across the north will be coached by women who have won Olympic hockey medals at the Northern Hockey Academy. (Photo from video)

In the next few days, 45 girls from across the north will be coached by women who have won Olympic hockey medals at the Northern Hockey Academy.

“We wanted to kind of create something where we gave families of the young ladies in northern Ontario an opportunity to … have some of the resources that otherwise we maybe can't find unless we go down south,” said Darryl Moxam of the Northern Hockey Academy.

Participants will receive elite skill instruction, learn about the importance of daily fitness and nutrition, as well as education and life experiences from the pros on topics such as the Olympics, scholarships and life after hockey.

The camp is aimed at players whose goal it is to follow in these athletes’ footsteps.

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“My point of doing this is just to, you know, bring the world stage in women's hockey to Sudbury,” Bonhomme said.

“I remember way back when I was a kid, when Geraldine Heaney made the trip to come up to for my dad's hockey school. And what an impact that made on me. So I hope, you know, if that just happens for one kid, I did my job. But I hope it does it for every single one that signed up here.”

“Just think it's so important, just wherever we can to show up for them and show them what's possible and like what they can strive for,” said Hayley Scammura of the U.S. Women’s national team.

“And even if they don't reach that at some point, at least they know, like that's where they can get to. And I'm just so grateful I can be a role model.”

This is the second year for the camp and Bonhomme said she hopes it can continue for years to come.

This year also featured a half-day mini camp option for those of all skill levels from ages 7-18.