Brandon’s Natalie Williamson recently announced her commitment to attend school at, and play hockey with, the University of Regina Cougars in the fall of 2021. Williamson, who is in her third year with the Westman Wildcats, said one of the reasons she selected the University of Regina was due its closeness to home and how friendly everyone was. “The coach Sarah Hodges was super nice and easy to talk to, and helped me a lot through the process. The university seemed to me like a good fit and had a great hockey program as well as a great academic program” said Williamson. “I am also super grateful for all my coaches and teammates as they have helped me a lot on becoming a better athlete and person”. She plans to pursue a degree in Police Studies.
Now a goaltender, she started playing hockey when she was 9 as a forward, and after her first year, her team needed a goalie, so she decided to try it out and really enjoyed it. She has played the position ever since. Last year she started 17 games for the Wildcats compiling an impressive 11-6 record with a 1.29 goals against average and a .942 save percentage. Her numbers were good enough to be named a 1st team all-star.
Congratulations Natalie Williamson on committing to the University of Regina 2021-22 season. Good luck to you Nat #wildcatpride #neverbesatisfied. pic.twitter.com/0ZMXuISloS
— Westman Wildcats (@westmanAAA) November 23, 2020
While this season was cut short due to Covid-19 sanctions, she managed to get 3 starts in league play. Williamson, who lists the New York Rangers and her favourite team and Henrik Lundqvist as her favourite player, went 3-0 in those games.
As for what she is up to while play is suspended Williamson said “I am continuing to do workouts at home to stay physically ready, as well as working on my mental game so I am prepared for when we go back. I am also trying new things like learning to juggle”.
