Leah Partridge, a skilled ringette player, navigates the ice with precision and attentiveness, keenly observing the ring, her teammates, and the evolving game dynamics while often unaware of players behind her. Currently in her fourth year of studying psychology, Partridge serves as the assistant team captain for the Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks.
Despite being born profoundly deaf in both ears, Partridge has been actively involved in ringette since the age of four. Recently, she participated with the Golden Hawks in the Canadian University Ringette Challenge Cup, a prestigious national competition for university teams. Expressing her enthusiasm for the sport, she appreciates the intensity and dynamic nature of each game.
Partridge faces challenges due to her profound deafness, even with the assistance of hearing aids, which are prone to malfunction during games due to sweat exposure. This limitation has compelled Partridge to adjust her playing style, heavily relying on visual cues to follow the game flow and communicate effectively with her teammates. She believes that this adaptation has enhanced her gameplay, particularly in reading plays and effectively moving the ring.
Originating from Londesborough, Ontario, Partridge was inspired to pursue university-level ringette after witnessing her sister’s experiences playing at Brock University in St. Catharines. Despite her hearing impairment, Partridge’s talent on the ice caught the attention of the Golden Hawks’ head coach, Abby Breckles, who highlighted the team’s seamless integration of strategies to accommodate Partridge’s needs.
Acknowledging the importance of teamwork and support, Partridge emphasizes the positive environment created by her teammates, who remain encouraging and understanding of her challenges. In her role as an assistant team captain, Partridge’s leadership qualities have significantly contributed to the team’s success, fostering a positive atmosphere both on and off the ice.
Looking ahead, Partridge aspires to continue her ringette journey beyond university, potentially exploring opportunities in leagues such as the National Ringette League. Despite falling short in the recent Canadian University Ringette Challenge Cup, where the Golden Hawks competed for the bronze title, Partridge’s determination and resilience remain unwavering, reflecting her commitment to the sport and her team.