REDS Adding Forward Wood

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s hockey team, the defending Atlantic University Sport champions, are adding home-grown forward Hillary Wood to their recruiting class of 2024.

The 17-year-old, from Miramichi, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2024-2025 AUS season.

“We’re excited to add another star New Brunswicker to our team next fall,” said REDS’ head coach Sarah Hilworth. “Hillary is a dynamic forward with a high hockey IQ, and we believe she’ll be a great addition to our already strong forward core.”

Wood is currently in her senior year at Rothesay Netherwood School. She recently became RNS’ career goal scoring leader and, last season, was named most valuable player of the Maritime Prep League. She was also a key member of New Brunswick’s 2022 Canada Winter Games entry and the 2023 Team Atlantic U18 team.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to play at the collegiate level in my home province and with a program like the UNB REDS,” said Wood. “Joining a team with such a positive culture and winning tradition, while still being able to play in front of family and friends made for an easy decision.”

In joining the REDS, Wood is also following in the footsteps of her sister, Kailla, already a member of UNB’s field hockey team.

“She plays the game with passion and integrity,” said Coach Hilworth. “We believe she’ll make a difference on the ice for us.”

“I’ve had the opportunity, in recent years, to be on the ice with the UNB coaches and players, and they’re not only great players, but have been so welcoming,” said Wood. “I can’t wait to get started and help bring a U SPORTS championship to UNB.”

Wood plans on studying Kinesiology while attending UNB.

STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics

PHOTO: SUBMITTED