Leah Partridge, a talented ringette player, showcases remarkable speed and keen awareness on the ice as she skillfully navigates the game, effortlessly tracking the ring, her teammates, and the unfolding play in front of her, all while facing the challenge of being profoundly deaf since birth.
Currently in her fourth year as a psychology student, Partridge serves as the assistant team captain for the Wilfrid Laurier University Golden Hawks. Despite her hearing impairment, which poses significant obstacles even with the aid of delicate hearing aids that often malfunction during intense matches due to sweat exposure, Partridge’s dedication to the sport remains unwavering.
Participating in the recent Canadian University Ringette Challenge Cup, a prestigious national tournament for university teams, Partridge shared her enthusiasm for the fast-paced and dynamic nature of ringette, emphasizing the thrill of each game’s unique intensity.
Born and raised in Londesborough, Ontario, Partridge’s passion for ringette was ignited at a young age, inspired by her sister’s involvement in the sport at Brock University. Eager to continue her athletic journey at the university level, Partridge successfully secured a spot on the Golden Hawks team during her early days at Wilfrid Laurier University.
Acknowledging her hearing impairment, the team, led by head coach Abby Breckles, tailored their communication strategies to ensure Partridge’s full engagement in the game, utilizing techniques such as direct face-to-face interaction and maintaining a loud environment during matches to facilitate effective communication with their determined teammate.
Embracing her unique playing style, which relies heavily on visual cues and strategic positioning to compensate for auditory limitations, Partridge has honed her skills over the years, becoming adept at reading plays and contributing significantly to the team’s performance.
As she navigates her final year at the university, Partridge has assumed a leadership role as the assistant team captain, providing unwavering support and positivity both on and off the ice, a testament to her resilience and determination in overcoming challenges posed by her hearing impairment.
Looking to the future, Partridge aims to continue her ringette journey beyond university, exploring opportunities to potentially join other leagues, including the National Ringette League, as she remains committed to the sport she loves. Despite falling short of clinching the bronze title in the recent tournament, the Golden Hawks’ unwavering teamwork and Partridge’s remarkable resilience continue to inspire both her teammates and fans alike.