The Montreal Victoire announced Thursday that they have re-signed goaltender Sandra Abstreiter to a one-year contract.
Abstreiter returns to the crease for Montreal after a solid showing last season, providing depth and stability in goal. Her re-signing ensures continuity at the position as the Victoire continue building a competitive roster for the upcoming PWHL season.
The Montreal Victoire have re-signed goaltender Sandra Abstreiter to a one-year deal, the team announced Thursday.
Abstreiter served as the team’s third goaltender last season and did not see game action, though she dressed as a backup for several contests. Despite limited PWHL experience—she’s appeared in three games, all with the Ottawa Charge during the league’s inaugural season—Abstreiter boasts a strong international résumé. She is Germany’s top netminder and recently starred at the Olympic qualifiers, going 3–0 with a 0.67 goals-against average and a .967 save percentage. At the 2024 World Championship, she posted a 2–3 record, a 2.22 GAA, and a .923 save percentage.
“Sandra brings a strong presence in front of the net, is a great teammate and has the ability to start games in our league, coming off an outstanding international season,” said Victoire GM Danièle Sauvageau. “This is a great opportunity for a goalie who has worked incredibly hard with our goalie coaches this past season. We are very excited to see her in net next season.”
With Elaine Chuli having signed with the Toronto Sceptres, Abstreiter will likely be in contention for the backup role behind Montreal’s starter.
“I am thrilled and grateful to be able to put on the Victoire jersey for another season,” said Abstreiter. “Playing in this city with such a passionate and loud fan base is an honour, and I am excited to be a part of our hard-working group for another year.”
Dubois returning as well
Later in the day, the Montreal Victoire announced that forward Catherine Dubois has signed a new one-year contract.
The 29-year-old has been with the team since its inception and remains a key piece of the lineup. Dubois recorded six goals and three assists in 24 games last season, and made a memorable mark in the playoffs by scoring the game-winning goal in the fourth overtime of Game 3.
“Catherine plays an important role within our group, making an impact both with her on-ice performance and the relationships she builds with her teammates,” said General Manager Danièle Sauvageau. “She’s taken major steps forward in her game over the last two seasons, continuing to develop and consistently playing to her strengths. We’re excited to welcome her back and look forward to what lies ahead.”
Said Dubois: “I am extremely happy to pursue this beautiful adventure with the Victoire. I will continue to play alongside my teammates and in front of our great fans who have supported me from the beginning. Playing in Montreal is a privilege, and I am happy to continue to proudly wear the Montreal Victoire uniform.”
