STU TOMMIES WOMEN’S HOCKEY ADDS B.C. FORWARD FOR 2026-27 SEASON
Fredericton,NB - The St. Thomas University Tommies women’s hockey program has announced the commitment of Raina Chala, a forward from Kamloops, who will join the team for the 2026-27 season.
Raina has spent the past several years developing through top-level hockey programs across Western Canada. After beginning her minor hockey career with the Kamloops Minor Hockey Association, she moved away from home at age 15 to pursue elite competition in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL). She played for the Okanagan Hockey Academy in Grades 10 and 11 and currently competes for the RINK Hockey Academy during her Grade 12 season.
A versatile player, she has primarily played left wing over the past two years but has transitioned to center this season and plans to continue in that role with the Tommies.
“I’m a hard worker and extremely dedicated to both my sport and my education,” she said. “I bring positive energy, a team-first mentality, and I’m excited to build strong relationships with my coaches and teammates as soon as I arrive.”
Known for her strong two-way game, she takes pride in her defensive play, including back-checking and shot-blocking, while also contributing offensively with strong instincts, high-end speed, and playmaking ability.
The recruit said several factors made STU stand out in her decision.
“I liked the smaller campus size and the opportunity to stay in Canada while exploring another part of the country. STU’s strong liberal arts programs and the reputation of the hockey team really stood out to me.”
Raina will pursue studies in Criminology and Criminal Justice.
Outside of hockey, she is also a provincial-level track and field athlete and enjoys a wide range of activities including golf, volleyball, rock climbing, skiing, and spending time with family, friends, and pets.
Raina credited head coach Peter Murphy and the program’s culture as key reasons behind her commitment.
“Coach Peter showed belief in me throughout the recruiting process and made me feel wanted. He was always available to answer questions and made both me and my parents feel comfortable with the process. When I met some of the players, they were incredibly welcoming, and I really liked the opportunities available for younger players within the program.”
"Raina has great speed and uses it to create offensive chances, but as a centre she is very committed to her role in the defensive zone as well. Her vision and ability to get up ice quickly allow her to be involved in the offensive zone consistently, and we will look to help her further develop this aspect of her game. We are very excited to add Raina to our forward group and our team overall. In talking with Raina, her commitment to personal improvement and strong character were evident and will serve her well in her university career and beyond." - Head Coach Peter Murphy
She also expressed gratitude to her family for helping her reach this milestone.
“I cannot thank my parents enough for all of their help and support in getting me to this stage in my life.”
The Tommies continue to strengthen their roster as they prepare for the upcoming AUS season, adding another driven student-athlete to a program that finished among the top-ranked teams in the country last season.