Interestingly, the senior could find herself competing against her idol for starting position at the 2018 Olympics.

“[Szabados] was my role model going up, so to be compared to her is amazing,” Maschmeyer said. “The first time I was compared to her I was like ‘yes, that’s exactly what I wanted’ so it’s cool that I’m at that age where we’re competing.”

The senior is certainly headed in the right direction. Maschmeyer is missing the first five games of the season to compete with Canada at the Four Nations Cup for the second year in a row. The goaltender tallied two wins in the 2014 rendition, helping her home nation claim the title, and was also part of the 2015 IIHF Women’s World Championship squad this summer.

As the collegiate world bids adieu to Maschmeyer, a new journey awaits her. With competition for an Olympic roster spot promising to be difficult, the senior will have to stay on her toes but will have full support from her Harvard hockey family.

“I certainly hope she has an opportunity to play for Team Canada in the Olympic games. I know that’s a goal for her and certainly a goal of ours to help her get there.” Stone said. “The big carrot is the Olympic games.”

There are two years left until the Canadian women’s hockey team skates onto the ice in South Korea. If everything falls into place, Maschmeyer could find herself waiting for the puck to drop once again. This time, however, the Maple Leaf will be emblazoned on her chest as she begins her Olympic career.

All this and more is possible for the girl from Bruderheim, Alberta who—with the confidence and work ethic responsible for her success—patiently awaits her chance at the international spotlight.

“[My] biggest asset is my confidence and knowing how much work I’ve put into my game,” Maschmeyer said. “[Players] never know when they’re going to get the opportunity…. So [it’s important] being ready for that.”

—Staff writer Julio Fierro can be reached at julio.fierro@thecrimson.com.