Jaida Klimach: In the Centre of Wolves Women’s Hockey

A new era in women’s athletics is breaking out at NWP this fall, and Jaida Klimach is excited to be part of hockey history. Jaida joins the inaugural roster of Wolves Women’s hockey, bringing with her a relentless energy and a deep love of the sport. 

“It’s a pretty cool opportunity to grow female hockey,” says the long-time centre.  “It’s exciting to start with a team that’s brand new.”

The 18-year-old brings years of on-ice experience to the Wolves. Jaida began playing in her hometown of Beaverlodge around age 10, moving to the Peace Country Female Athletic Club (PCFAF) Storm at the Peewee level (now called U13). 

Since day one, Jaida has brought a tenacious and competitive spirit to the game. “I love it. I’ve always wanted to take it as far as I can,” she recalls. When asked about her playing style, she paints a picture of someone determined and single-minded. 

“I don’t ever give up,” Jaida says. “I don’t even think about quitting.”

During the 2025-26 season, Jaida was recognized as PCFAC’s U18 MVP and top forward, and also received the Alberta Female Hockey League (AFHL) All-Star Forward award. As she moves to the post-secondary level, Jaida says NWP feels like the right path. “It’s close to home, and the coaches are great,” she explains. “I’ve known them for a long time, and I trust them.”

“Jaida has a constant motor that never quits,” says head coach Brett Stephenson. “She plays so hard between the whistles and is the top scorer in her league,” adding that he’s excited to see what Jaida can accomplish at this level.

Jaida has watched women’s hockey grow during her years with the Storm, which recently rebranded as the Wolves to align with NWP and to highlight the pathway available for female players to compete at the highest levels while pursuing local post-secondary education. “There are lots more female players,” Jaida observes, adding that the team climbed in the standings over recent seasons, including being first in the North Division last year.

While Jaida is pleased to return to familiar ground at Design Works Centre this season, she’s eagerly anticipating skating out with a new lineup. “It’s exciting to meet new people,” she says about taking it to the next level alongside other elite players. “Team practices are going to be awesome.”

Jaida is enrolled in Open Studies for her first year at NWP with an interest in Kinesiology. While she waits for the puck to drop on the new season, she spent time this summer coaching younger players. “It’s fun to see the coach’s perspective. You realize how different it is from that side,” says Jaida. She also likes lacing up with the little kids. “They’re pretty adorable. They’re like a herd of cows – you try to herd them one way, they go the opposite,” she laughs.

The forward invites everyone to come out and support the Wolves first season. 

“It’s pretty fast-paced hockey – it’s fun to watch,” she explains. “It’s a good opportunity for Grande Prairie to support local female hockey. More fans means more growth.”

The first-ever Wolves hockey season breaks out this fall with 25 action-packed games on the schedule. Come cheer on Jaida and the Wolf Pack as they debut elite women’s hockey in Grande Prairie.