Natalie Spooner Bio
Natalie Marie Spooner (born October 17, 1990) is a Canadian professional ice hockey player for the Toronto Sceptres of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) and a member of the Canadian national women’s team. She was named the IIHF Female Player of the Year in 2024. Spooner was the first player to play for the Canadian national under-18, under-22, and senior teams. In 2014, she became the first player to win both an Olympic gold medal and the Clarkson Cup in the same year. Spooner runs a High Performance Hockey Academy for girls.
Early Life and Background
Natalie Spooner was born in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada. Her parents, Peter and Ann-Marie, migrated to Canada from England in 1974. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Spooner was encouraged to pursue her passion for ice hockey from a young age. She attended Cedarbrae Collegiate Institute, where she excelled in athletics and was named the school’s athlete of the year for four consecutive years. During her early years, Spooner played with the Durham West Jr. Lightning, where she showcased her skills and leadership abilities.
Path to Hockey
Spooner’s hockey journey began with the Mississauga Chiefs, where she participated in the 2008 Esso Women’s Nationals. She later joined the Ohio State Buckeyes, where she made a significant impact as a freshman by scoring 21 goals in 30 games. Spooner’s performance earned her multiple accolades, including First Team All-WCHA honors during the 2009-10 season. Her success at Ohio State paved the way for her selection in the second round of the 2012 CWHL Draft by the Toronto Furies.
Natalie Spooner Career
Early Career (2007–2012)
Natalie Spooner began her professional career in 2007. She played for the Mississauga Chiefs from 2007 to 2009 before joining the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2009 to 2012. During her time at Ohio State, Spooner became the all-time leading goal scorer for the Buckeyes, achieving numerous records and accolades. She was named to the CCM All-America Team in 2012, marking her first recognition as an All-American.
Breakthrough (2012–Present)
Spooner made her debut with the Toronto Furies in the 2012 CWHL season, where she quickly established herself as a key player. She scored a hat trick in her first game and set a franchise record for most goals by a rookie. Spooner’s career continued to flourish as she became the Furies’ leading scorer during the 2014 Clarkson Cup playoffs, contributing to the team’s championship victory. In 2023, she was selected in the fourth round of the PWHL draft by the Toronto Sceptres and signed a two-year contract with the team.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Natalie Spooner has achieved significant milestones, including winning Olympic gold medals in 2014, 2018, and 2022, and being named the IIHF Female Player of the Year in 2024. She has also been recognized for her contributions to women’s hockey through various awards and honors.
Natalie Spooner Award Nominations
Natalie Spooner has received several nominations throughout her career, including recognition for her outstanding performances in international competitions and league play.
Natalie Spooner Awards Won
Natalie Spooner has won numerous awards, including the IIHF Female Player of the Year in 2024, highlighting her exceptional contributions to the sport of ice hockey.
Natalie Spooner Family
Natalie Spooner is married to Adam Redmond, and the couple welcomed their son, Rory, in December 2022. Spooner balances her professional career with her responsibilities as a mother.
Personal Life
In addition to her athletic achievements, Natalie Spooner has participated in reality television. She competed in the second season of The Amazing Race Canada in 2014 and finished in second place. Spooner also appeared in the fifth season of CBC’s Battle of the Blades, where she and her partner finished as runners-up. She is actively involved in promoting women’s hockey and runs a High Performance Hockey Academy for girls, encouraging the next generation of female athletes.
