The first roster for the newly formed Ridgetown Royals may catch some people by surprise since one of the players is a woman.
Jessie McPherson was one of three goalies chosen after impressing during tryouts.
Royals Owner TJ Clarke told CK News Today she fully earned her spot.
"I didn't let most of (the players) know that she was coming out, and I think they thought they could light her up pretty easy, and they couldn't," he laughed.
McPherson is coming off five straight seasons in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) with the University of Vermont and Minnesota State University. She won 54 games during this time, 11 of which ended in a shutout.
Clarke said he was impressed with McPherson's collegiate career and wanted to see her play in person. After blowing away their expectations during tryouts, a decision was made to include her on the roster.
"It doesn't matter if she's male, female, or Martian; if she's the best goalie out there, then she's the best goalie," added Clarke.
According to Clarke, McPherson will become one of the first women to play in the American Premier Hockey League (APHL).
Meanwhile, the Royals will play their inaugural game on September 27 at home against the Summit City Distillers.
Puck drop at the East Kent Memorial Arena is set for 5:30 p.m.
