Abby Roque, known among teammates and rivals as “Abi-Jail” for her physical style, ranks among the top players in penalties this season, with 27 minutes across 15 games in the PWHL. The 28-year-old forward from Michigan has earned her reputation as a formidable competitor, combining toughness with skill. Beyond the penalties, Roque’s offensive talent places her among the league’s top 10 scorers, skating in Montreal Victoire’s usual top line alongside captain Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey.
Line Adjustments and Upcoming Challenges
With captain Marie-Philip Poulin sidelined briefly due to a lower-body injury sustained during the Olympics, Roque took on the left wing role in a line with Hayley Scamurra and Maureen Murphy, helping Montreal secure a 4-1 victory over New York. Poulin is expected to return to the lineup soon, potentially reuniting the top trio for a crucial match against the defending Walter Cup champions, Minnesota, this Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.
Currently, Montreal lies second in the league standings, trailing the Boston Fleet by only two points, setting the stage for fierce competition in the critical remaining games of the regular season.
Roque’s Journey from Opponent to Montreal Mainstay
Roque joined Montreal during the offseason after previously playing for New York, and she recalls her first years competing against the Victoire with respect and excitement. Despite being frequently booed by Montreal fans in those early years, she viewed that as a sign of intensity and competitive spirit rather than negativity. Now embraced by the Victoire’s loyal fan base, she finds their passionate support inspiring.
“The fan base here, I just loved — I would get booed here all the time when I played against Montreal. I thought the fans were so awesome for that. So, when I got traded, I was pretty excited to have those fans with me.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Roque adds that the fans’ recognition extends beyond the rink, with many young fans seeking photos and showing admiration, making every game an electric experience. She proudly describes the Montreal supporters as the best in the PWHL.
Balancing Team Chemistry and Language Barriers
While Roque admits her French skills remain limited, she appreciates being part of the locker room’s “French Corner,” which includes Quebec natives Cat Dubois, Jade Downie-Landry, and Maya Labad. Though she often feels lost when they converse quickly in French, the warm team atmosphere and support have helped her adjust.
“It’s really poor, I’m gonna be honest (laughs). I’m in the ‘French Corner’ in the locker room — it’s Cat Dubois, Jade Downie-Landry and Maya Labad… They’re trying to help me learn, for sure, but when they’re all talking with each other in French at a very fast pace, I’m just lost.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
On ice, Roque has formed a strong bond with linemates Poulin and Stacey. Although they once faced off as opponents, the transition to teammates has been smooth and rewarding for Roque, who enjoys the competitive edge she brings and the friendship that has developed.
“That is nice (laughs). Coming here, there’s definitely people who I beefed with on the ice a lot (laughs), and I think right away it was just kind of like, ‘Glad to have you here instead of against us.’”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Insights into Playing with Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey
Roque highlights Poulin’s quiet, focused demeanor on the ice, contrasting with Stacey’s more talkative nature and Roque’s own chatter. This blend has fostered a dynamic where the line communicates well, balances serious concentration, and enjoys moments of humor during games. Roque praises the intelligence and vision Poulin brings to the ice, which aligns well with her own playing style.
“Pou is just so smart, and I think we think the game pretty similarly. So, it’s been pretty easy to kind of learn to play with her, because we both think the game, we both want to give each other the puck.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
She also commends Stacey’s speed, work ethic, and skill in creating scoring opportunities, making their line one of the most effective in the league.
Competitive Matchups and Respect for Opponents
Roque admits she thrives on facing the best players in the league, appreciating the challenge they bring. One of her toughest rivals is Megan Keller, considered the top defender in the PWHL for her all-around excellence. Despite their on-ice battles, Roque regards Keller as a friend and respects her abilities deeply.
“One of the players I play against that I just don’t enjoy because she’s so good is Megan Keller… She’s just incredible, honestly — offensively, defensively, such a strong skater.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Roque expressed happiness at Keller’s success, including Keller’s overtime goal that clinched the Olympic gold medal for Team USA.
“It couldn’t have happened to a better person or player. She’s worked hard, she’s a great teammate, a great person — that’s definitely somebody you have to really be happy for.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Path from Playing Boys’ Hockey to Pro and International Success
Roque’s hockey journey started uniquely, as she played boys’ hockey through high school in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, becoming the first girl to join her high school’s boys’ team. Initially uncertain about her abilities, she joined her first girls’ tryout camp in eighth grade at her father’s encouragement and quickly advanced to national development camps.
Calls from colleges offering scholarships followed, yet she remained grounded, focusing on improving her game rather than dreaming immediately of the professional leagues or national team. Her continuous improvement opened doors and allowed her to steadily rise through the ranks.
Body Checking Experience Advantage in the PWHL
Abby Roque credits her upbringing in a more physical hockey environment for helping her adapt well to the body checking aspect of the professional women’s game, which remains new to many players. She emphasizes the importance of protecting oneself to avoid injury, while embracing clean hits as part of the game’s intensity.
“I think some girls are still getting used to that. If I get hit, it’s usually a good, clean hit, and I love that. I’m like, ‘Good, the game is physical — all good to hit me.’”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Her ability to anticipate hits and keep her head up has proven a key factor in maintaining her presence and impact during physical matchups on the ice.
Motivation Driving the Walter Cup Pursuit
Heading into the second half of the season, Roque is laser-focused on winning the Walter Cup with Montreal Victoire. Having not experienced playoff hockey during her previous seasons with New York’s Sirens, and following the disappointment of missing the most recent Olympic team, her determination has only intensified.
“For me, it’s about winning a Walter Cup this year… I think for me, it’s just about making sure I’m putting my best foot forward so the team gets my personal best every day. That’s the most important thing for me.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Montreal’s current standing in playoff contention inspires confidence, but Roque stresses that the team is focused beyond simply making the playoffs — their goal remains capturing ultimate success this season.
Teammates Who Inspire Confidence on the Ice
Roque attributes much of her team’s strength to the diverse talents found on the Victoire roster. Notably, goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens stands out as a game-changer behind the net, instilling confidence in her teammates through outstanding performances.
“We feel really confident with her back there… She’s confident, she’s amazing. She definitely is a big game changer for us in a lot of games.”
– Abby Roque, Montreal Victoire forward
Additionally, players like Nicole Gosling have shown growth and promise throughout the season, complementing stars like Poulin and Stacey and rounding out a well-balanced lineup with the potential to win the championship.
