From Billboards to Podiums: Sarah Nurse’s Inspiring Journey in Women’s Hockey

Canadian national team defender Erin Ambrose has noticed that Sarah Nurse’s presence in the sport is like being everywhere you turn. Nurse, a prominent figure in women’s hockey, was driving home from a PWHL Toronto practice when she received some wise advice from a billboard featuring her own face and the Adidas slogan “You got this.” This simple message boosted her confidence and made her realize the potential she possesses as an athlete.

At 29 years old, Nurse has had significant partnerships in the past, including collaborations with Tim Hortons and Mattel to create a Barbie doll in her likeness. She has become a recognizable face in the world of women’s hockey, especially after her impressive performance at the Beijing Olympics in 2020 where she broke a record for points in a single tournament with 18. Following her Olympic success, Nurse made history by becoming the first woman to appear on the cover of an EA Sports hockey video game with NHL 23. She also played a crucial role in the launch of the Professional Women’s Hockey League by serving on the player-led bargaining committee that negotiated a groundbreaking CBA for women’s professional hockey.

Recently, Nurse has been busy with various engagements, including starring in a Canadian Super Bowl commercial and participating in NHL All-Star Weekend events. Her presence in the sport has been widely recognized, with Canadian national team defender Erin Ambrose noting that “everywhere you turn, it’s like, there’s Sarah.” Despite her current success, Nurse is looking to achieve even more in her career. She remains focused on expanding her influence beyond hockey and continually setting new goals for herself.