Casuals with Katie Nolan: Michigan Goals, Mid-Game Snacks & Most Valuable Primates | Featuring the NY Sirens
Release Date: April 10, 2025
In this engaging episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, host Katie Nolan welcomes Abby Rock and Jesse Eldridge from the New York Sirens of the PWHL (Women's Professional Hockey League). The conversation spans a range of topics, including the team's current season, Abby's historic Michigan goal, the growth and challenges of women's hockey in the United States, and personal anecdotes that shed light on the lives of professional female athletes.
1. Introduction of Guests and Team Overview
At [09:32], Katie Nolan introduces her guests, Abby Rock and Jesse Eldridge. Abby, notable for her recent inclusion in SportsCenter's Top 10, made history by scoring the first Michigan goal in PWHL history. Jesse adds insights from his experiences with the team, setting the stage for a deep dive into the team's dynamics and the league's status.
Notable Quote:
"We're having a lot of fun." – [09:42] Jesse Eldridge
2. Season Overview and Current Status
The New York Sirens are navigating through their second PWHL season with enthusiasm and determination. With an international break currently underway, the team faces three crucial games post-break that will determine their playoff eligibility. Jesse reflects on the league's growth, noting, "Last year we didn't expect the league to do as well as it did, and I think that was just the starting point." ([10:13])
3. The Historic Michigan Goal
Abby delves into the excitement surrounding her Michigan goal—a rare and impressive feat in hockey where the puck is lifted and maneuvered into a tight scoring zone. She explains the technical prowess required, saying, "I had to put the puck on top of my stick from the ice and then get it in the air around shoulder height to get put it in the top corner of the net over the goalie shoulder." ([14:51]) This goal not only highlighted her skill but also brought significant attention to the PWHL.
Notable Quote:
"It's probably the coolest, number one goal I'll ever score in my life." – [14:39] Abby Rock
4. Challenges Facing Women's Hockey in the US
Katie and her guests discuss the distinct challenges women face in professional hockey within the United States compared to Canada. Abby points out, "Hockey's not the biggest sport in America by any means. And I think we've seen hockey grow substantially, though, in popularity in America." ([11:06]) They highlight the disparity in media coverage and cultural support between the two countries, emphasizing the need for greater investment and visibility in women's hockey.
Notable Quote:
"In Canada, it's like we're here. If we go to a bar and try to get another team's game on, it's extremely difficult." – [11:53] Abby Rock
5. Growth and Sustainability of the PWHL
The conversation shifts to the sustainability and future of the PWHL. Abby notes significant improvements in organizational support and investment, contrasting it with previous leagues that struggled due to inadequate funding. "We can tell, like, when we bring issues that are important to us, like, we're good, they're looking at them." ([21:04])
Notable Quote:
"It doesn't really feel like a risk anymore to me. I just feel like I know that it's just gonna continue to grow." – [21:50] Abby Rock
6. The Role of Women's Sports in Today's Landscape
Abby and Jesse reflect on the broader context of women's sports gaining momentum. Abby shares a personal anecdote about supportive online comments following her Michigan goal, indicating a shift towards greater respect and recognition for female athletes. "People are just respecting the game." ([23:59])
Notable Quote:
"Women's sports is getting to a level where people are just respecting the game." – [23:59] Abby Rock
7. Personal Anecdotes and Team Dynamics
The episode takes a lighter turn as Abby and Jesse share personal stories, including Jesse's experience with training his dog and memorable moments from trips with the team. A particularly poignant story involves Jesse accidentally injuring a teammate's head with his skate during his senior year: "It was my introduction. So that was my introduction." ([49:30])
Notable Quote:
"We are blood brothers now." – [49:52] Jesse Eldridge
8. Hockey Slang Explained
To make hockey more accessible to casual fans, Katie invites Abby and Jesse to explain common hockey slang terms. They break down phrases such as "biscuit" (the puck), "bread basket" (a shot targeting the goalie's chest), and "dangle" (a skilled maneuver to evade opponents). This segment not only educates listeners but also adds a humorous touch to the conversation.
Notable Quotes:
"The biscuit is the puck." – [42:13] Jesse Eldridge
"A dangle is a move to get around, like a nice move, like a toe drag or something that's gonna make the crowd go wow." – [44:04] Abby Rock
9. Closing Remarks and Future Prospects
As the episode concludes, Katie expresses optimism about the Sirens' chances in the upcoming playoffs, encouraging listeners to attend games and support the team. She hints at future episodes discussing major sports news, maintaining engagement with her audience.
Notable Quote:
"I think you guys are gonna make the playoffs. Look, I don't wanna jinx it." – [50:35] Katie Nolan
This episode not only highlights the achievements and challenges of the New York Sirens but also serves as an accessible entry point for casual fans to appreciate the intricacies of women's professional hockey. Through heartfelt discussions and educational segments, Casuals with Katie Nolan fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sport and its athletes.