Vicky Sunohara

In a country that worships at the altar of hockey, there is no greater praise than to be called the "Wayne Gretzky of women's hockey.” Seven-time world champion, three-time Olympian and two-time gold medalist Vicky Sunohara has certainly earned this designation.

Vicky Sunohara was an assistant captain for seven years with Team Canada before retiring from international competition in 2008. In addition to playing in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 Winter Olympics, she won 15 gold and three silver medals as a member of Canada’s national team, finishing her career with 118 points (56 goals and 62 assists) in 164 games.

Like many Canadian children, Sunohara first learned to skate in a backyard rink built by a father who was a hockey enthusiast. “My mother said that from the minute my father introduced me to hockey, I wouldn’t do anything else,” Sunohara says. “I just loved it.”

Sunohara’s love for the game has taken her around the world as a player, coach and spokesperson for women’s hockey. After attending Northeastern University on a full athletic scholarship from 1988-90, she played two seasons with the Varsity Blues, winning two Ontario Women’s Intercollegiate Athletic Association (OWIAA) championship titles and earning rookie of the year honours in 1990-91.

When her playing career came to an end, Sunohara came back to U of T and completed her bachelor’s degree in physical health education.  “The Phys. Ed. U of T environment was very special” she recalled. “I was very proud to be a student and even more proud to be a graduate.”

In 2011, Sunohara returned again to U of T, this time as the head coach of the Varsity Blues women’s hockey team.  “This is a dream job for me,” said Sunohara.

"… and I look forward to the task at hand—making the Varsity Blues a national contender."

Published Nov. 28, 2013.