MILTON - If a strong pedigree and championship experience count for anything, the Carleton University Ravens should be pretty excited about their incoming Miltonian.
A gritty two-way forward adding to her family’s vast hockey success, Ashlyn Carter highlighted an impressive minor career with OWHA U22 Elite Championship Weekend supremacy.
Following three one-goal victories to reach the final, she and the Stoney Creek Sabres blanked the Durham West Lightning Sunday.
This marked the 18th time in the champs’ last 20 games that they held the opposition to two goals or less, including a 1-0 squeaker to kick off the weekend.
“This championship means so much to me. To achieve this with not only my teammates but my best friends makes it even more special,” said the veteran Sabre, the younger sister of accomplished players Megan and Lauren, who’s now ready to compete at the provincial championships later this month before jumping to the collegiate hockey ranks while studying health sciences. “Everyone supported each other, on and off the ice, and that really showed in the way we played.
“We worked so hard for this moment all year, and it feels amazing to have to have it all come together.”
Boosting her physicality over the past year, 18-year-old Ashlyn played a big shutdown role throughout the championship weekend – blocking two shots in the final and assisting on a last-minute clincher against the Lightning.
Growing up amidst a healthy competitive environment, the OWHA champ began her development with the hometown North Halton Twisters before her nine-year run with Stoney Creek.
That success-laden stretch included a U18 national championship win in 2023, two trips to the provincial finals – with one victory – and a pair of OWHL Southern Championship triumphs.
Along with the strong bonds forged with the Sabres, Ashlyn credits her success to the “shared passion for the game” that’s been a constant in her household.
“Whether it’s through sharing tips or cheering each other on during games, we always motivate one another to be better.”
Now Ashlyn follows her sisters into the collegiate hockey scene – looking to add a little grit and high-stakes experience to the Ravens.
“I can’t wait to contribute to the team while also developing my skills further.”
