Ava Pinch Stands Tall in the Net and on the National Stage

Cold Lake’s own Ava Pinch is proving that small-town roots and big-time talent go hand in hand — and she’s about to take it all the way to the 2025 Lacrosse Canada Nationals in Nova Scotia.

Fresh off being named to the All-World Team at the 2024 IIJL Women’s World Junior Lacrosse Championship, Ava is now suiting up once again for Team Alberta U22, representing the province on one of the biggest stages in the sport.

Oh — and did we mention she’s also the only female in her entire league?

“It is a mixed team, but I am the only female in the league,” Ava said of her current team, the Edmonton Tier I Warriors in the Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League. “You get a couple stares walking into the arena, but they bring me in like family.”

Let that sink in: she’s playing Tier I lacrosse against the top male talent in the province — and still posting an 80% save percentage while facing up to 50 shots per game. And now, she’s gearing up to go back-to-back with Team Alberta after winning the national title last year.

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A Goalie. A Trailblazer. A Role Model.

Ava’s story isn’t just about stats and saves — it’s about grit.

This is a young woman who’s dominated in both hockey and lacrosse, playing goalie in two of the most punishing positions in sport. While she’s shifted her focus to lacrosse for now, she’s no stranger to hard work and higher levels.

“Just know — trust in your skills,” she said, offering advice to other girls trying out for boys’ teams. “The work you put in will really help get you on that team and take you further.”

In addition to representing Alberta at Nationals, Ava is also showing younger athletes — especially girls — what’s possible when you refuse to be limited by tradition.

“I hope to inspire all the girls to play lacrosse — girls’ teams, mixed, even both if they want to.”

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Let’s Get Her There: Sponsor Ava’s Journey to Nationals

Here’s the part where we say it plain: Ava needs help getting to Nova Scotia.

She’s a student. A goalie. A role model. And she’s chasing a championship — again.

Her trip to Nationals, running August 11–15, comes with travel, gear, training, and accommodation costs. If your business, team, or family is in a position to back an athlete who’s already doing Alberta proud, this is your moment.

It doesn’t take thousands. Even small donations or local sponsors can help get Ava where she needs to go.

Want to help?

Send a message to Lakeland Connect and we’ll put you in touch with Ava directly. You can also email us or reach out through social. Let’s rally behind one of our own — and show the rest of the country what Cold Lake pride looks like.