Minnesota sealed their title defense Tuesday night at a sold-out Xcel Energy Center, defeating the Toronto Torch 3–2 in a nail-biting Game 5 of the finals series. With the win, the Frost become the first team in PWHL history to win consecutive Walter Cups, solidifying their status as a modern dynasty.
🔥 The Game: Tension, Talent, Triumph
Minnesota’s victory didn’t come easy. Toronto, led by superstar captain Sarah Nurse and goaltender Erica Howe, pushed the series to the brink after staving off elimination in Game 4. But the Frost, fueled by home-ice energy and a deep, disciplined lineup, delivered in crunch time.
The game-winning goal came midway through the third period from Taylor Heise, who buried a one-timer off a feed from teammate Grace Zumwinkle. Goalie Maddie Rooney stood tall in net, stopping 32 of 34 shots, including a flurry of chances in the final minute with Toronto’s net empty.
🏆 Championship MVP
Minnesota’s Kendall Coyne Schofield was named Walter Cup Playoff MVP, leading all scorers with 14 points in the postseason. Her leadership and lightning speed on both ends of the ice made her a nightmare for opposing defenses and a steadying presence for the Frost.
🧊 Dynasty in the Making
This back-to-back championship not only reinforces Minnesota’s dominance but also signals a larger movement in women’s sports—sustained excellence, booming fan support, and national attention.
Frost Head Coach Natalie Darwitz, herself a former USA Hockey star, credited the team’s chemistry and resilience:
> “This group has faced every kind of adversity and responded with heart. Back-to-back titles mean something special—not just to us, but to this city and the entire women’s hockey community.”
👏 League Growth
The 2025 PWHL season saw record-breaking attendance, TV ratings, and youth enrollment in hockey programs across North America, especially in the Midwest. Minnesota’s success, paired with the league’s continued growth, is a strong signal that the women’s professional game is here to stay—and thriving.
As confetti rained down on the ice and fans roared in celebration, one thing became clear: the Minnesota Frost are not just champions—they are the gold standard in women’s hockey.
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