Brick by brick the Brisbane Lightning have been building an impressive Australian Women’s Ice Hockey League (AWIHL) program.
A 4-1 loss to the Melbourne Ice and silver medal at the 2024/25 AWIHL Finals, it was a massive step forward for the Lightning under head coach Matt Meyer.
Furthermore, Meyer has got the Lightning firing again this season in their quest to lift the Joan McKowen Trophy for the first time.
With the final loss still fresh in the minds of the Lightning playing group, it is a driving force that has them primed for another deep finals push.
“Making the finals last year showed us just how special this group really is,” Lightning alternate captain Abi Brown told andrewkamacdougall.com.au
“And honestly, it only added more fuel to the fire. We got a taste of what’s possible, and now we want it all.
“That gold medal is something the Brisbane Lightning [formerly the Goannas] have never had before, and we’re determined to change that.”
Continuing to find the groove
Lightning have been one of the in-form teams throughout the 2025/26 AWIHL season, strong form on home and away ice.
Heading into Round 8 against the Perth Inferno the Lightning were on a five-game winning streak.
Finishing the weekend with a split series after a 5-4 Saturday win, vibes are high as the Lightning are 8-2 in their last ten.
“The vibes within the team have been unreal,” continued Brown.
“When you’re having fun, backing each other, and feeling that support, it shows in the way we play — it’s been a massive part of our momentum.
“Add in the Lightning fans bringing the energy every game, and it creates something really special.”
Rising to the challenge
Ten seasons at the Lightning and Goannas combined, Brown has been a constant when it comes to Queensland women’s hockey.
2023/24 would be a career year for Brown, grabbing seven goals and 10 points from 16 games played.
Statistically it might not be the same for Brown this season, but finding ways to influence games and contribute is still strong.
“The points might not be there like they were, but that’s okay,” said Brown.
“Hockey’s about so much more than stats.
“Everyone has a role, whether that’s scoring, grinding, being the playmaker, or doing the hard defensive work.
“This season, the coaches were very clear with me about what they needed from my game, and I’ve embraced that.
“My focus has been on creating opportunities for teammates, spending quality time in the offensive zone, wearing down the opponents, and setting things up for the next lines to capitalise.
“Even when I’m not on the scoresheet, I know I’m helping drive our performance each week and that honestly feels just as rewarding.”
The Terrier Two
When it comes to import players entering the AWIHL, there are none bigger than the Boston University Terriers connection.
Ani FitzGerald and Emma Wuthrich – both BU alumni, have been enormous for the Lightning and are gamechangers.
Wuthrich returning after a year away from the AWIHL, while FitzGerald is spending her first time on Australian shores.
Both have been driving forces throughout the season, FitzGerald with 30 points (17 goals, 13 assists) and Wuthrich 20 points (six goals, 14 assists).
This one two Terrier punch is giving the Lightning a different edge and x-factor across even strength and special teams.
Uniquely, having two players with chemistry and connection from previous hockey programs is paying dividends.
“It’s been massive for us. We’re so lucky to have Fitzgerald and Wuthrich on this roster,” continued Brown.
“Wuthrich was here two seasons ago, which helped open the door for FitzGerald this year, and you can really see that high-level hockey background every time they step on the ice.
“They have such a natural chemistry — maybe it’s an American thing — but it’s also been awesome watching them build that bond off the ice too.
“They’ve brought so much energy, experience, and heart to the group, and they genuinely feel like family now.”
Blueliner making an impact
Outside of the highlight reel goals, fancy dekes and fast driving plays there are always players flying under the radar.
Madison Laplante is having a breakout AWIHL season, the Lightning blueliner is performing at both ends of the ice.
With 11 points (four goals, seven assists) from 12 games played, Laplante is scoring five on five and coming up big on special teams.
Outside of the point production and powerplay numbers, Laplante’s fearless approach is most notable to the locker room.
“Laplante has been nothing short of incredible, she’s absolutely fearless,” said Brown.
“Throwing her body on the line, making unreal defensive plays that leave you wondering how she even pulled them off, then jumping straight into rushes up the ice.
“She’s incredible and really has been putting in the hard work.
“Off the ice, she’s one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet — super supportive, brings great energy, and is always there for everyone.
“Not only is she incredible on the ice, but off ice this season, she has been juggling finishing her medical degree and getting married, all while still absolutely ripping it up on the ice.
“Our team culture is really special, and she’s a huge part of that.”
Leave a Reply