The 2025 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship kicked off on January 4, 2025, bringing together young talent from around the globe to compete on the ice. The tournament, held in Vantaa, Finland, features the best from across the world, including Team USA, which is eager to defend its championship title.
Team USA began its campaign with tremendous momentum, presenting fans and observers with high expectations. After a strong start to the competition, the team holds a perfect 2-0 record heading toward its final preliminary match against Finland on January 7. The U.S. team has been bolstered by impressive performances, including consecutive shutouts against Japan and Sweden, maintaining their scoring prowess and defensive integrity.
On January 4, Team USA faced Japan, asserting dominance early with a commanding 6-0 victory. The Americans outshot their opponents 67-4, with Haley Box and Mary Derrenbacher leading the scoring charts. Box opened the scoring just over four minutes from the start, followed by contributions from Christina Scalese, Margaret Averill, Bella Fanale, and Emilia Biotti, all of whom marked their names on the scoresheet. Goaltender Morgan Stickney also played her role, notching four saves to preserve the shutout.
Team USA followed it up with another strong performance against Sweden on January 5, where they secured a 3-0 win. The victory came after the teams battled through tough defensive play until Scalese broke through to score during the second period. Evelyn Doyle and Kylie Amelkovich then added to the scoreline, with Stickney once again showcasing her skills, keeping Sweden at bay with 21 saves.
“I am really proud of the way this team played today,” said Liz Keady Norton, the head coach of Team USA, referring to the team's performance against Sweden. “Sweden came out swinging, and we were able to play together as a team to get the win.” Norton, who is serving as head coach for the second consecutive season, has instilled confidence and camaraderie among the players, setting the stage for success.
Team USA's roster for the event features 25 players, including eight returners from their gold medal-winning squad at the 2024 IIHF Women's World Championship. Captained by Bella Fanale from Webster, N.Y., the team also includes first-time participants such as Chyna Taylor, who made history as the first player from Kentucky to represent the U.S. on this international stage.
Adding to the team spirit, the squad has introduced their mascot, Gingy Jr., made by Keady Norton’s son. This cutout gingerbread figure follows the tradition established by its predecessor, which supported Team USA during the previous tournament. Gingy Jr. is frequently seen on the bench, adding a touch of fun and motivation as the team presses on toward their championship goals.
Finland, the host nation, experienced mixed results early on, beginning the tournament with a challenging 2-1 loss to Sweden. Despite the setback, the team bounced back to defeat Japan 4-2, demonstrating resilience and skill. Yenna Kolmonen’s winning goal was pivotal to Finland's success and emphasized their ambition to build momentum as the tournament progresses.
The competition continues to showcase and develop female hockey talent, with team dynamics and personal growth taking center stage. Keady Norton’s squad has shown great potential as they strive for another gold medal, aiming to turn the excitement generated by their initial matches from mere promise to achievement.
Looking forward to the showdown with Finland, Team USA will be eager to maintain their winning streak and lay claim to the top spot heading to the elimination rounds. The anticipation builds as fans eagerly await the next chapter of this thrilling championship.
The final day of preliminary rounds is set for January 7, with Team USA slated to face Finland at 10:00 a.m. ET (5:00 p.m. local). With both teams’ successes and the stakes involved, this clash promises to be one to watch.
Fans can catch all the action live on NHL Network, ensuring every moment is captured as players chase their dreams and make history on the ice together. Mark your calendars and be part of this exciting tournament celebrating rising stars of women’s hockey!