Ottawa Charge Coach Carla MacLeod Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Carla MacLeod, the head coach of the Ottawa Charge, has announced her diagnosis of breast cancer. Despite this challenging news, she intends to continue her role with the team while undergoing treatment. In a news release issued on Sunday, MacLeod expressed her determination to remain active in her coaching responsibilities, stating, “Hearing those words was incredibly difficult, but I want everyone to know that I’m going to be okay.”

MacLeod, who has built a reputation for her leadership in women’s hockey, emphasized her gratitude for the exceptional medical team supporting her. She noted, “Together we’ve built a treatment plan that gives me tremendous confidence in the road ahead.” MacLeod plans to remain with the Charge and is also committed to coaching the Czechia Women’s National Team at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics scheduled for February 2026.

Continuing Commitment to Coaching

MacLeod is set to begin her treatment this week, which will unfortunately require her to miss the Charge’s upcoming game against the Minnesota Frost on December 2, 2023. She acknowledged the challenges of being away, saying, “The FOMO will be real, but I’m incredibly lucky to be surrounded by world-class players, coaches, and staff who will keep pushing our group forward.”

In her absence, assistant coach Haley Irwin will step in as head coach for the match against the Frost. Mike Hirshfeld, general manager of the Charge, conveyed the organization’s support for MacLeod during this time. He stated, “The Charge and League are here to support Carla throughout her treatment. Her strength, resilience, and optimism shine through in the most challenging of circumstances, and we know she’ll approach this next chapter with the same determination she brings to everything she does.”

MacLeod’s commitment to her roles is evident as she balances her health concerns with her passion for coaching. She expressed, “Coaching the Ottawa Charge and the Czechia Women’s National Team is a privilege I cherish deeply.” Her focus remains on supporting the teams she leads, demonstrating an inspiring dedication to her profession despite personal challenges.

The community surrounding the Ottawa Charge and the broader hockey world are rallying around MacLeod, showing solidarity and support during this difficult time.