Ottawa Charge Coach Carla MacLeod Faces Breast Cancer Battle

Carla MacLeod, head coach of the Ottawa Charge, publicly announced on Sunday that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. MacLeod, a celebrated two-time Olympic champion, expressed her determination to face this challenge with the support of her medical team and the Charge organization.

Facing the Challenge

In a heartfelt statement on the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) club’s website, MacLeod shared her initial reaction to the diagnosis. “Hearing those words was incredibly difficult,” she stated, “but I want everyone to know that I’m going to be okay.” Her confidence stems from the exceptional medical team that is guiding her through this journey. “Together we’ve built a treatment plan that gives me tremendous confidence in the road ahead,” she added.

MacLeod, hailing from Spruce Grove, Alberta, took on the role of head coach for the Charge in September 2023. During her first season, she led the team to the PWHL playoff final, where they faced the Walter Cup-champion Minnesota Frost. Alongside her duties with the Charge, MacLeod also serves as the head coach for the Czechia women’s national team, which has qualified for the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.

Support and Commitment

In her statement, MacLeod expressed concern about balancing her health with her commitments to both the Charge and the Czechia program. “One of my biggest concerns, outside of my own health, was the possibility of not being able to fully support the two programs that mean so much to me,” she explained. Fortunately, her medical team assured her that her treatment would have minimal impact on her coaching responsibilities.

MacLeod plans to begin her treatment this week, which will prevent her from being on the bench during the upcoming home game against Minnesota. “Being with this team fuels me, and I intend to stay as connected as I can during treatment,” she remarked, demonstrating her dedication despite the challenges ahead.

Charge general manager Mike Hirshfeld released a supportive statement, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to MacLeod during her treatment. “The Charge and League are here to support Carla throughout her treatment. Her strength, resilience, and optimism shine through in the most challenging of circumstances,” he said. Hirshfeld expressed confidence that MacLeod would tackle this next chapter with the same determination she brings to her coaching.

In light of MacLeod’s absence, assistant coach Haley Irwin will step in as head coach for the upcoming game against the Frost. The Charge’s community continues to rally around MacLeod, underscoring the strong support system within the team.

As news of her diagnosis spreads, MacLeod’s resilience serves as an inspiration to players and fans alike, reflecting the spirit of determination that defines the world of sports.