Carla MacLeod, head coach of the Czech Republic national women’s hockey team and the PWHL’s Ottawa Charge, has announced her diagnosis of breast cancer. The news came on Sunday, and in a message shared by the Charge on X, the 43-year-old expressed her determination and optimism, stating, “I want everyone to know that I’m going to be okay.”
MacLeod highlighted her gratitude for having a “superb medical team” that is supporting her through this challenging time. She has already developed a treatment plan that instills confidence as she navigates her health journey. “There are still some variables to be determined as we move forward, but my goal — without question — is to be behind the bench as often as possible,” she wrote.
Upcoming Responsibilities Amid Treatment
MacLeod’s commitment to her teams remains unwavering, particularly as the Czech Republic prepares for the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games, where they will face the United States on February 5, 2024. This will mark the Czech Republic’s second Olympic appearance and their first time competing in the Pool A bracket, following a seventh-place finish at the 2022 Beijing Games.
“I finally exhaled when my medical team assured me that my treatment should have minimal impact on being present for the Charge season, and that I’ll still be able to coach Czechia,” MacLeod shared. Under her leadership since April 2022, the Czech team has achieved notable success, securing consecutive bronze medals at the 2022 and 2023 world championships. They have placed fourth in the past two tournaments and are seen as strong medal contenders in a competition traditionally dominated by the United States and Canada.
Despite her health challenges, MacLeod is focused on maintaining her connection with the team. Ottawa Charge is currently off to a 1-1 start in the season, but she will miss the upcoming match against Minnesota due to her treatment schedule. “The fear of missing out will be real, but I’m incredibly lucky to be surrounded by world-class players and staff, who will keep pushing us forward,” she stated. “Being with the team fuels me. And I intend to stay as connected as I can during treatment.”
Support from the Team and Community
Mike Hirshfeld, general manager of the Charge, indicated that assistant coach Haley Irwin will take over coaching responsibilities during MacLeod’s absence. “The Charge and the league are here to support Carla throughout her treatment,” Hirshfeld said. “Her strength, resilience, and optimism shine through in the most challenging of circumstances. And we know she’ll approach the next chapter with the same determination she brings to everything she does.”
Originally from Alberta, Canada, MacLeod is a celebrated figure in women’s hockey, having won gold medals representing Canada in 2006 and 2010. After her successful playing career, she transitioned to coaching, landing the position with the Charge in their inaugural season in 2024. Following a challenging first season without playoffs, the Charge made a significant comeback, defeating top-seeded Montreal in the semifinals, before falling to defending champion Minnesota in the Walter Cup finals in May.
As MacLeod embarks on her treatment, the hockey community stands firmly behind her, showcasing not only their support but also the strength of women’s sports. Her journey will not only impact her health but will also resonate with many who admire her dedication and spirit.
