Ashton Bell Leads Vancouver Goldeneyes as First Captain

Ashton Bell has taken on the role of captain for the Vancouver Goldeneyes, marking a historic moment for the franchise. The announcement came unexpectedly during a team meeting, where Bell, a defender, was surprised to find herself in the company of general manager Cara Gardner Morey and Shannon Woeller, captain of the Northern Super League champions, Vancouver Rise. Woeller’s presence added significance to the occasion as she revealed Bell’s name as the newly appointed captain.

Reflecting on the honor, Bell expressed her gratitude, highlighting the wealth of leadership within the team. “I certainly wasn’t expecting it, just with the group that we have — we have so many leaders in that locker room with so much experience,” she stated. Having been voted into the leadership group by her teammates, Bell’s selection as captain is a testament to her skill and dedication, especially after being the first pick in the expansion draft.

The Goldeneyes launched their inaugural season on November 3, 2023, with a thrilling overtime victory against the Seattle Torrent in front of nearly 15,000 fans at the Pacific Coliseum. The atmosphere was electric, capturing the excitement surrounding women’s hockey in Vancouver. During the game, Sarah Nurse scored the first goal, setting off a series of back-and-forth scores that culminated in a dramatic overtime win.

Building Team Chemistry on the Road

With the season just beginning, Bell and her teammates are embarking on an 11-day road trip, which includes a matchup against the Ottawa team she previously played for and a Saturday game against the New York Sirens. The extended travel has provided a unique opportunity for the team to bond and develop chemistry. “It’s definitely really beneficial,” Bell noted, emphasizing the importance of spending time together to solidify team identity and culture.

Bell moved to Vancouver in July, immersing herself in the local hockey culture. The community’s enthusiasm for the Goldeneyes has been palpable, with many fans eager to support the new team. “Anyone you would run into on the street was just super excited to have a team out here,” she shared, highlighting the positive reception the team has received since its inception.

As the team navigates through their challenging schedule, Bell remains focused on both individual and collective growth. She acknowledges the diverse skill set within the locker room, stating, “We can play many different styles, which is super exciting.” The emphasis on solid defensive play will allow the team to unleash their offensive capabilities.

During their time in New York, the Goldeneyes plan to explore the city and enjoy some downtime. Bell mentioned that the team has a “fun committee” dedicated to planning activities, which contributes to the overall camaraderie among the players.

With the excitement of the new season underway, Bell’s leadership will be pivotal for the Goldeneyes as they aim to establish themselves in the league and inspire future generations of female hockey players. As she continues to adapt to her role and build connections within the team and community, the journey for Bell and the Vancouver Goldeneyes is just beginning.