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Jocelyne Larocque and Victoria Bach Are Ready to Electrify Ottawa

The Ottawa Charge acquired veteran defender Jocelyne Larocque and forward Victoria Bach in a blockbuster trade with the Toronto Sceptres.

Jocelyne Larocque and Victoria Bach Are Ready to Electrify Ottawa
Jocelyn Larocque (left) and Victoria Bach (right) warming up at Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto on December 31st, 2024. (Photo Credit: Ottawa Charge X account)

On December 30th, 2024, the Ottawa Charge made a bold move to solidify their roster in a blockbuster trade with the Toronto Sceptres. In exchange for Hayley Scamurra and Savannah Harmon, the Charge acquired two cornerstone players: veteran defender Jocelyne Larocque and forward Victoria Bach. This deal signaled Ottawa’s determination to build a championship-caliber team in their second PWHL season and proved that General Manager Mike Hirshfeld isn’t afraid to make big moves in the pursuit of a Walter Cup.

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Victoria Bach

Known for her elite speed and ability to create scoring opportunities, the 28-year-old forward is embracing her role as a key piece of the Charge’s offense.

“I’m really excited about the fans! I’ve been here, played against Ottawa, and I just know the fan base is amazing. Honestly, I’m just excited to explore the city,” Bach told The Ice Garden.

Bach’s enthusiasm for her new team extends beyond her play on the ice. “I’ve only been here for two days, and they’re already making me feel so welcome. I think that’s the really exciting part here—getting to meet some new teammates and make memories together,” she added.

Her excitement is matched by her drive to establish herself as an integral part of the team. When asked about her playing style, she described it simply: “I like to use my speed and make plays with the puck. I like to bring a lot of energy and have fun both on and off the ice.”

In her first game with the Charge, she played alongside Gabbie Hughes and Danielle Serdachny, two of Ottawa’s brightest young stars. “That was great, obviously. Both very skilled, talented players, and just really excited to get the chance to play with them. They both have a lot of energy and it was a great game to be a part of,” Bach shared.

Jocelyne Larocque

Jocelyne Larocque’s hockey resume is as impressive as it gets: double Olympic gold medalist, multiple-time World Champion, and one of the most respected defenders in the game.

“This is only my second day on the job, but I can tell that it’s a really good atmosphere. People care about each other, and it’s a positive one,” Larocque said of her early impressions of Ottawa.

She praised head coach Carla MacLeod for fostering an environment where players are set up to thrive. Reflecting on her first game with the Charge, Larocque shared a moment that stood out to her: “What I really appreciated is, you know, Carla spoke to myself and Victoria and said, you know, just play. Don’t think too much. It’s not like we’re doing a ton of evaluating on the two of you for this game, because we know that it’ll come with a lot of emotion.”

Larocque’s presence is about more than just leadership: “Carla holds her players accountable but in a respectful way, which is where I thrive, a positive yet a high standard environment,” she explained.

Off the ice, Larocque is excited about connecting with the fanbase and embracing the city. “I’m excited for what 2025 holds,” she said. “It’s a great city, and I can’t wait to get to know the fans.”

What the Trade Means for Ottawa

Trading Hayley Scamurra and Savannah Harmon was a tough decision for the Charge, as both players were key contributors during the team’s inaugural season. However, the addition of Jocelyne Larocque and Victoria Bach addresses two critical needs: defensive stability and offensive firepower.

Larocque’s veteran presence and defensive ability provide the Charge with a steadying force on the blue line. Her ability to lead by example and mentor younger players will be invaluable as Ottawa aims to build a team culture rooted in accountability and respect. Meanwhile, Bach’s speed and creativity inject a new level of excitement into the Charge’s offense.

Larocque and Bach will make their home debut for the Charge on January 11th at TD Place. Puck drop is at 2pm EST.

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