Fresh of CW Silver, Bisons Women's Hockey Ready for Next Steps in 2026-27

The Manitoba Bisons women's hockey team knows what it feels like to play on the biggest stage.

Fresh off a Canada West silver medal and a berth at the U SPORTS national championships last season, the Bisons enter 2026-27 with confidence in what they have established — but also with a hunger to see how much farther they can go. That appetite has already reflected itself in the team's identity from the start of training camp.

"There has been a focus and a determination to "not waste any days". Our process is what drives us. Living in the moment and pushing to make each other better everyday will ultimately determine our destiny this year," said head coach Jordan Colliton.

Setting the tone

The team's mindset is important in a competitive Canada West conference, where the difference between success and disappointment can be small.

One of the players leading the charge on that front is team captain Dana Goertzen.

Her voice has become an important part of the Bisons' identity, bringing a high compete level and physicality to practices and games.

"She sets the tone in practice and games," says Colliton. "Her compete level and physicality is a quality that sets her apart not only from her teammates but from the majority of Canada West."

Colliton says Goertzen has arrived at training camp with a clear purpose, and Manitoba will look to her to help guide the group throughout the season.

Sophia Anderson is another established leader expected to take on an important role.

Her hockey IQ, emotional intelligence and overall skill set is a steady presence for the Bisons both off and on the ice.

"She's someone that can be relied upon when the game is on the line," says Colliton.

The entire team has bought into the culture created by Colliton and her leaders, a culture that sparked so much success in the latter half of last season.

"We want to continue build on our style of play and the identity we established last year. A relentless, hard working, high pressure team that is very difficult to play against," says Colliton.

Players Taking the Next Step

The Bisons will also be looking for continued development from several players who showed progress last season.

Sadie Keller is one of those players.

After making significant strides throughout last season, Keller enters this year with increased responsibility and a growing leadership role within the group.

"She has a very high compete level, but also a very positive and infectious energy within our group," says Colliton.

The Bisons are expecting Keller to take another step offensively this season while continuing to provide the consistency that has made her a trusted player.

Norah Collins is another player entering an important stage of her career.

Known throughout her U SPORTS career for her offensive ability and elite skating, Collins added another dimension to her game last season by becoming increasingly dependable in defensive situations.

By the end of the year, she was being trusted in important defensive moments and was willing to sacrifice for the team.

"I look forward to seeing how much more Norah can contribute in her final season," says Colliton.

Becoming Better Together

Ultimately, Colliton is looking for growth in her second season as head coach, for her players individually and as a unit.

"Who we are on October 9th, 2026 shouldn't be who we are on February 20th, 2027," says Colliton.

Their mindset of "no wasted days" will guide their way.

"There are no surprises this season. The expectations and standards have been set. Now it is time to consistently meet those."

That commitment will be tested throughout the season.

There will be adversity, difficult stretches and challenges that come with competing in Canada West.

But the experience of last season has given them a better understanding of what is required — and they're showing it right from jump this year. The Bisons will face their first text at home on Friday, October 9 at Wayne Fleming arena. It's an exciting rematch against last year's Canada West champions, who will be in Winnipeg for a two-game set. Tickets are available now.