In a thrilling showdown at the 2025 Miller Waste U SPORTS National Championship, the Waterloo Warriors faced off against the Bishop's Gaiters with the national title on the line. With passionate fans from both sides packing the stands, the stage was set for a great night of hockey.

The Warriors opened the game on the penalty kill, with Jalen Duffy (Burlington, ON) making key blocks and Nikki McDonald (Stoney Creek, ON) and Madison Pritchard (Richards Landing, ON) using their speed to create pressure, even generating offensive chances. The team's relentless back check reflected their determination, capped off by a crucial shutdown by Carly Orth (Bolton, ON). After 20 minutes, the score remained locked at 0-0.

Waterloo started the second period on the power play, creating several chances, but Bishop's penalty kill stood strong. Brodi Levitt (Caledonia, ON) injected energy into the Warriors' fore check, while Emma Thornton (Kitchener, ON) won critical puck battles to maintain possessions. The Warriors began to control the tempo, slowing play and applying tactical pressure in the offensive zone. Bishop's struck first, but Waterloo responded with fire. Lyndsy Acheson's (Summerland, BC) explosive speed sparked the team, as they ramped up their intensity.

The third period showcased Waterloo's defensive strength, with Kara Mark (New Hamburg, ON) solid in goal. The Warriors pressed hard, generating multiple shots, with Madison Pritchard (Richards Landing, ON) displaying silky smooth dangles in the offensive zone and Nikki McDonald (Stoney Creek, ON) continuing to create chances off the fore check. Despite the Warriors' push, Bishop's capitalized late to go up 2-0, forcing the Warriors to pull their goalie. An empty net goal sealed it, giving Bishop's the 3-0 win and the national title.

While the result wasn't in Waterloo's favour, the Warriors left it all on the ice, playing with grit, heart, and pride until the final whistle.