Ottawa Daily Digest — Jan 10, 2026

Ronja Savolainen’s breakout confidence

• Ronja Savolainen, 28, is showing marked growth in her second PWHL season with the Ottawa Charge. The Finnish defenceman has become noticeably more assertive — jumping into plays and contributing offensively while maintaining defensive responsibilities.
• Key numbers: age 28; season: 2nd year in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL).

Game result: Charge 4, Vancouver Goldeneyes 2

• Ottawa beat the Vancouver Goldeneyes 4-2 on Friday. Savolainen scored on a rebound for Ottawa’s first goal, a play the team said reflects her growing comfort in the lineup.
• Key numbers: final score 4-2; Savolainen opened scoring with Ottawa’s 1st goal.

Pairing with veteran Jocelyn Larocque

• Playing alongside veteran defender Jocelyn Larocque has helped Savolainen accelerate her development. Larocque’s experience and reliability give the 28-year-old a stable partner to learn from every shift.
• Fact: Larocque is described by teammates as one of the game’s most reliable veterans; Savolainen cites learning from her each shift.

On-ice impact and style

• Savolainen’s style combines aggressive gap control and an increased willingness to join the rush. Coaches and teammates credit her with making plays at both ends — evidenced by the rebound goal and steadier play in her own zone.
• Outcome: the Charge reaped immediate reward from her play in Friday’s 4-2 victory.

Outlook and development goals

• Short term: Savolainen aims to keep building consistency and translating confidence into more high-impact plays. Long term: she hopes to shape a career as accomplished as Larocque’s.
• Team perspective: Ottawa views her growth as a positive sign for roster depth and season momentum.