Who are the Hustlers? The Fernie Hustlers are the dedicated, energetic and talented group of women that make up Fernie’s competitive women’s hockey team. This skilled and versatile team consists of moms, artists, professionals, tradeswomen, successful entrepreneurs, and many avid skiers! This team was originally started by a group of FAR women staff members for the purposes of intermission entertainment for the classic men's Fernie vs. Kimberley hockey match. Since then the team has grown into a talented, cohesive, fun-loving group of friends.

The Hustlers enjoy a 6-month hockey season, with one weekly ice time to perfect their hockey skills. Scrimmages and practices occur every Thursday, and competitive games are regularly scheduled between other local women’s teams such as Sparwood, Cranbrook, Elkford and Pincher Creek. Last month the women competed in a competitive match against the Fernie Ski Patrol, which drew out quite a big crowd.

Elkford and Pincher Creek host excellent one-day tournaments which the Hustlers enjoy participating in to improve their skills. A recent accomplishment includes winning the seventh annual Whitefish Women’s Winter Face Off hockey tournament. The team travelled to Montana in December and represented Fernie with style! In a round-robin tournament, the Hustlers defeated Missoula, Whitefish, and tied The Cranbrook Wildcats. This led the Hustlers to the final A-side game. In a thrilling display of teamwork and hard work, the Hustlers defeated the Wildcats 2-1, scoring the winning goal with 58 seconds left in the game, bringing home the championship cup.

The team would like to thank their sponsor, The Brickhouse, for their support and encouragement. A special shout-out to Paula Turcasso and the Brickhouse staff for their accommodation and top-notch service every week! Be sure to come to the rink every Thursday, from 9pm to 10pm to cheer on the Fernie Hustlers!

by Courtney Haeusler