Biography
Sami Jo Small, born on March 25, 1976, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is a retired Canadian ice hockey goaltender known for her significant contributions to women's ice hockey. A standout player during her collegiate years, she played for the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she helped lead her team to a national championship in 1998. Small's exceptional skills on the ice earned her recognition as a top goaltender and marked her as a key figure in the growth of women's hockey.
Small's international career includes participating in multiple Women's World Championships, where she won three gold medals and two silver medals with Team Canada. She was also a member of the Canadian national team that captured a gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, solidifying her status as one of the leading figures in her sport. In addition to her national service, Small played professionally in leagues such as the National Women's Hockey League (NWHL) and was a consistent performer in the Canadian Women's Hockey League (CWHL).
Beyond her playing career, Sami Jo Small has made significant contributions to coaching and mentorship within the sport. She is an advocate for women's sports and continues to work towards the development of future generations of female athletes. Her legacy is not only defined by her on-ice accomplishments but also her commitment to promoting women's ice hockey and inspiring young players across Canada and beyond.