Two hockey players from London express their excitement about fulfilling their childhood dreams by representing Canada at the Winter Olympics in Italy next month. Julia Gosling and Ella Shelton, former members of the London Devilettes, are part of the 26-player Team Canada roster for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games starting on February 6.
Shelton, a defenseman for the Toronto Sceptres in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), shared her joy about hearing the news, emphasizing how it is a significant moment athletes wait for, reflecting on her childhood dream of donning the Team Canada jersey.
Having previously secured a gold medal at the 2022 Beijing Games, Shelton aims to defend the championship this year, while Gosling, a forward for the Seattle Torrent, prepares for her first Olympic experience, expressing excitement about the entire Olympic journey from the village to the opening ceremonies.
Both Shelton and Gosling have found the experience of being part of the PWHL remarkable, receiving immense support from fans and the hockey community. Shelton, who scored the first-ever goal in PWHL history in 2024, noted the camaraderie and competitiveness within the team, especially with American teammates turning into rivals on the ice.
Gosling anticipates facing five of her Seattle teammates during the games, acknowledging the unique situation but emphasizing the competitive spirit when representing their country. Their former coach, Ted Brown, highlighted how Shelton and Gosling serve as inspirations to young players, showcasing that dreams in women’s hockey are achievable.
Chelsea Jongeneelen, president of the London Devilettes Girls Hockey Association, commended Gosling and Shelton for paving the way for current and future athletes in women’s hockey, emphasizing the attainability of such dreams and the importance of perseverance.
As they gear up for the Olympics through rigorous training and games, both players are optimistic about their performance. Gosling encourages aspiring female hockey players to believe in themselves and their abilities, emphasizing that hard work and dedication can lead to the realization of their dreams.