Leah Partridge, a dedicated ringette player, showcases her speed and strategic awareness on the ice as she adeptly follows the game, her teammates, and the ring’s movement while often missing out on sounds from players behind her. A fourth-year psychology student and assistant team captain for the Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks, Partridge has been playing ringette since she was just four years old. Recently, she and her team participated in the Canadian University Ringette Challenge Cup, a prestigious national tournament for university teams.
Despite being profoundly deaf in both ears since birth, Partridge navigates the game with limited functional hearing, even facing challenges with her hearing aids breaking down during matches due to sweat damage. Adapting her playing style, she relies heavily on visual cues to stay engaged in the game and communicate effectively with her teammates, a skill she believes has enhanced her performance on the ice.
Originally from Londesborough, Ont., Partridge was motivated to join the Golden Hawks ringette team after being inspired by her sister’s ringette journey at Brock University. Her coach, Abby Breckles, highlighted Partridge’s seamless integration into the team and the supportive environment that has helped her excel despite her hearing impairment. The team has implemented various communication strategies, such as face-to-face interactions and loud cues on the ice, to ensure Partridge remains fully engaged in the game.
As she embraces her final year at university, Partridge, now an assistant team captain, continues to inspire her teammates with her positive attitude and leadership skills both on and off the ice. Looking ahead, she aims to explore opportunities to continue playing ringette post-graduation, potentially considering joining leagues like the National Ringette League.
Although the Golden Hawks fell short in the consolation final at the Canadian University Ringette Challenge Cup, losing to the University of Western Ontario’s Mustangs, Partridge’s resilience and determination shine through as she remains focused on her passion for the sport and her unwavering commitment to overcoming any obstacles that come her way.