After 28 years, the Women’s National Team returns to the World’s biggest stage
July 1st will be a night to remember for the Women’s National Team as they take on the hosts, Spain in the opening match of the 2022 World Cup.
The venue is the Terrassa Olympic Stadium. It’s Canada day and the Wolf Pack will take on a familiar foe in the tournament opener. Since 2018, these two teams have played each other nine times with Canada holding the slight advantage with three wins. The teams drew five matches in that period and Spain won a crucial victory in the finals of the 2019 FIH series finals.
Canada sits in a pool with Spain, Korea and Argentina. The top two finishers in the pool will advance to the World Cup quarterfinals. Canada is looking to play spoiler on opening night against the home team. Head coach Rob Short expects the moment to be special for his athletes but knows that once that first whistle blows, the team will deliver.
“It’s pretty special to think we’re playing the opener at the World Cup after almost 30 years since this team last went. And on Canada Day too,” he said. “I know the crowd will big and exciting. It’s going to be so special and I’m excited for the team to enjoy that moment. I have no doubt we’re going to perform.”
Canada brings a balanced and experienced roster to Spain. Short said this group is ready to take on the World.
“What I really like about this group is the balance. We have experience and we also have youth. We have speed and power and skill, but it’s also a thoughtful group.”
Team captain, Natalie Sourisseau, said the team is looking forward to opening the tournament on July 1. For her, this team is a second family and having the chance to represent Canada with this group means the world to her.
“It will be a showcase of the game at the highest level. It’s going to be amazing,” she said. “I can’t imagine a better way to start the tournament, or on a better day [Canada Day].”
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