Virden’s Emma Ramsey is thrilled to be able to continue her hockey career at the post secondary level.
Last week it was announced that the daughter of Tyson and Tracy Ramsey had committed to play hockey and study at Assiniboine Community College. Ramsey started playing hockey when she was five years old.
“What keeps me playing is my love and passion for the game,” she said. “I truly cannot picture my life without the game of hockey, playing hockey is my favourite thing to do. I have learned so many things through hockey on and off the ice that have helped me become the person I am today. I have also created so many lifelong friendships that I am very grateful to have.”
Brandon-based ACC is a good fit for Ramsey for several reasons, she said. Ramsey grew up in Brandon before moving to Virden in 2019.
“I like that ACC is a smaller school and that it has a very welcoming feel to it,” she said. “I grew up in Brandon, so it feels like home. I have heard many great things about the school, hockey program, and coaches and am very excited to be a Cougar.”
ACC competes at the American Collegiate Hockey Association Women’s Division II level. The Cougars won the ACHA DII national championship in 2019. The team was pleased to add her as its first commitment for the 2022-2023 season.
“Emma brings a strong work ethic and team-first attitude,” Cougars head coach Tony Bertone said on the team’s website. “Her skates are always moving—she’s constantly reading and reacting to the play. Her hockey IQ will be a great asset to the Cougars, playing on all special teams.”
This season Ramsey is an assistant captain for the U18 AAA Westman Wildcats. As of Saturday, the forward had a goal and seven points through 25 games. In an interview earlier this season, Wildcats head coach Guy Williams praised Ramsey’s vision, positional awareness, and high energy.
As well as skill, Ramsey brings character and leadership to ACC. In the past, she was the recipient of the Ashley Neufeld Ultimate Teammate Award for both softball and hockey. She also won the Brandon School Division - Acts of Kindness Award.
Off the ice in Brandon, Ramsey plans to enrol in the social service worker program. She is interested in becoming a counselor and helping young people.
Ramsey moved to Virden in 2019 when her father became the head coach and general manager of the Virden Oil Capitals junior hockey team. She said both of her parents have been very supportive of her hockey career.
“My dad coached me for many years,” Ramsey said. “He has taught me so many things about the game and is always there to give me advice. My mom has always encouraged me to work as hard as I can and has instilled many values in me on how to be a good teammate on and off the ice.”
