What a difference a year can make.
For Ottawa Charge forward Rebecca Leslie, 2026 has been nothing short of spectacular, both on and off the ice.
After managing just three points for the Charge during the 2024-25 season, Leslie exploded for 23 last season, tied for fifth in the PWHL.
And she was just getting started.
Leslie ramped up her game even further, leading the Charge in playoff scoring and helping them get to the Walter Cup Final for a second straight year.
Along the way, she delivered one of the most memorable goals in PWHL playoff history. Leslie’s Game 3-winning goal in the final against Montreal electrified the playoff-record crowd of 16,894 at Canadian Tire Centre.
Although the Charge fell short of winning it all, Leslie established herself as one of the league’s most important players, and her accomplishments were recognized in the offseason.
She signed a contract extension with the Charge that will keep her in Ottawa for at least two more seasons. She was honoured for her contributions away from the rink with the league’s “Hockey for All” Award, and she won a roster spot on Team Canada for this month’s 2026 IIHF Women’s World Hockey Championships in Denmark.
That’ll do.
Leslie has come a long way since her formative years, happily lugging her gear into cold little Eastern Ontario rinks with the Canterbury Crusaders, Gloucester Rangers, Kanata Rangers, and Ottawa Lady Sens.
With the Charge moving into her hometown’s biggest arena on a full-time basis this season, Leslie will now have an opportunity to build on her success in front of even bigger crowds.
FACES recently connected with Leslie to ask about her incredible year, the changes coming to the Charge, and what she hopes to accomplish next.
Photography by Nicolai Gregory
You had 23 points last season and only three the season before. What happened? Was there a particular moment when you realized your game had reached another level?
“I think a big part of it was confidence and opportunity. I learned a lot from that first season, and I spent a lot of time working on my game and figuring out what I needed to do to be successful at this level. Last season, I felt more comfortable trusting my instincts, playing with confidence, and using my strengths.
“I don’t know if there was one specific moment where everything clicked, but I think as the season went on, I started to see the work paying off. Once I gained that confidence, things started to come together, and I was able to contribute more offensively. I’m proud of that growth, but I also know there’s still another level I want to get to.”
You scored that late game-winning goal in Game 3 of the Final with Ottawa fans going wild at Canadian Tire Centre. What was that moment like for you?
“Honestly, it was pretty surreal. To score a goal like that, in that moment, in front of that many fans in Ottawa, was really special. Everything happens so fast when you’re out there, so I don’t think you fully process it right away.
“Hearing the crowd and seeing everyone’s reaction was something I’ll never forget. Having that moment at home, with our fans behind us, made it even more special. It’s definitely one of those moments you dream about as a kid, and I’m really grateful I got to experience it.”
You helped lead the Charge to the Final, but the team came up short. How long did it take you to get over that disappointment?
“It took a little while, just because when you get that close, you want to finish the job, especially knowing how much work everyone put in throughout the season. It was tough, but I think once you have some time to reflect, you start to appreciate what a special group we had and what we were able to accomplish together.
“At the same time, that disappointment gives you extra motivation. You realize how hard it is to get there, and it makes you want to work even harder to get back and win it.”
Tell us about what it means to you being named to Team Canada and a chance to play at the World Championships.
“It’s a really surreal feeling. Any time you get to represent your country, it’s a huge honor. I’m just really thankful for my journey in getting here. It wasn’t easy. So, I’m just really proud.”
You also signed a contract extension that will keep you with the Charge for two more years. What does that mean to you?
“I’m really excited about that as well. Ottawa is such a special place for me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue building here. I love this group, the culture we’ve created, and the support we’ve gotten from the fans.”
The offseason brought some player departures again, including Brianne Jenner, Emily Clark, Rory Guilday and others. How difficult is it to see players you’ve shared so much with move on?
“It’s definitely tough. When you spend so much time together, both on and off the ice, these players become more than just teammates, they’re people you build really special relationships with.
“They’ve all had such a big impact on this team and on me personally, so it’s hard to see them go. I’ll miss their leadership, their personalities, and just having them around every day. They’ve helped shape the culture of this group, and I think that’s something that will stay with us.
“At the same time, you understand that change is part of hockey, and I’m excited to see what this next group can do. We’re really grateful for everything they’ve given to this team.”
Like the Senators, the Charge will need a new captain this season, and you would certainly be someone the team might consider. What are your thoughts on leadership and what it would mean if you were chosen?
“I think leadership is something that comes in a lot of different forms. For me, it’s about leading by example, being someone my teammates can count on, and bringing a consistent effort every day.
“We’ve had some incredible leaders in this room, and I’ve learned a lot from watching them and seeing how they lead in different ways. Obviously, being named captain would be an incredible honour, and something I’d be really proud of, but I think regardless of the title, I want to be someone who helps this team succeed.”
What are your thoughts on the Charge moving to Canadian Tire Centre full-time this season?
“I think it’s really exciting. Ottawa has such an amazing fan base, and getting to play full-time at Canadian Tire Centre is a great opportunity for our team to continue growing the game here.
“Hopefully, moving there full-time brings even more fans out and helps us build that connection with the community. We’re really proud to represent Ottawa, and I think this is a great step forward for the Charge and for women’s hockey.”
What do you love about the city of Ottawa?
“One of the things I love most about Ottawa is the sense of community. It’s a city where people really rally around each other and show up to support one another, whether that’s through sports or just in everyday life.
“Growing up here, I’ve always felt that sense of pride and connection, and it’s been really special to see the city come together to support the Charge.
“Ottawa has that small-town feel in a bigger city, where people are proud of where they’re from and want to see each other succeed. Being able to represent my hometown and be part of growing women’s hockey in this community means a lot to me. I’m really proud to be from Ottawa.”
You won the league’s Hockey for All Award over the summer. Can you tell us about the things you do to give back and what that award meant to you?
“It meant a lot to me to receive that award. Growing up in Ottawa, this community played such a big role in shaping who I am, both as a person and as a hockey player, so giving back has always been really important to me.
“Whether it’s working with young girls through hockey camps, getting involved in community events, or simply taking the time to meet people and connect with fans, I try to take advantage of every opportunity to give back.
“I think sometimes the smallest interactions can mean a lot to someone, and I never want to take those opportunities for granted. Hockey has given me so much, and if I can use my platform to help inspire the next generation or make someone feel more connected to the game, that’s really meaningful to me.”
Your brother Zac is playing professional hockey in Austria. How closely do you follow each other’s careers, and how intense was the sibling rivalry growing up?
“We follow each other pretty closely. We’re always talking hockey, and I lean on him a lot throughout the season for advice and perspective. He’s been playing pro for years, so he’s someone I really trust when it comes to my game.
“Growing up, there was definitely some sibling rivalry! We were both competitive, and I think that pushed us to get better. We always wanted to beat each other, but at the end of the day, we’ve always been each other’s biggest supporters.
“Now that we’re both playing professionally, it’s really special to be able to share that experience and understand what the other is going through.”
Away from hockey, what is Rebecca Leslie obsessed with right now?
“Right now, I’d say being an aunt! I’m pretty obsessed with my nephews and love any chance I get to spend time with them.
“Family is a huge part of my life, so when I’m away from the rink, I really value being able to slow down and spend quality time with them. I love watching my nephews grow up and getting to be part of their lives. Honestly, some of my favourite moments are just being at home with my family and enjoying the time together.
“Hockey takes up so much of the year, so those moments mean a lot to me!”
