A toy loon has emerged as the unofficial mascot for Canada’s women’s hockey team as they prepare for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics. This whimsical figure was gifted to team member Emma Maltais by a fan prior to their first preliminary match against Switzerland on February 7. The game culminated in a resounding 4-0 victory for Canada, sparking excitement about the toy’s potential as a good luck charm.
Toy Loon’s Role as a Mascot
Since then, the loon has been affectionately nicknamed “Wolf Bird” by the Canadian team. The name pays homage to Russian player Ilya Rozanov’s reference to the loon on the show *Heated Rivalry*, where he humorously reacts to its eerie call. The toy also produces its own loon call, prompting players to showcase their impersonations. Erin Ambrose and Ella Shelton are noted for having the best imitations, adding a fun team dynamic.
Team Performance
- February 7, 2026: Canada defeats Switzerland 4-0.
- February 10, 2026: The team secures a spot in the semifinals with a 5-1 win over Germany.
- Earlier Match: Canada suffers a 5-0 loss to the United States.
While the team hopes the loon will bring luck, its impact is yet to be fully determined. Historically, the Canadian Olympic hockey team has enjoyed success with lucky charms. During the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Games, a “lucky loonie” was subtly buried in the ice, coinciding with gold medal wins by both Canadian hockey teams. This loonie now has a place of honor in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
If “Wolf Bird” helps propel Team Canada to victory at Milano Cortina 2026, it might also earn a special place in the team’s lore, much like its predecessor. The bond between the players and their new mascot showcases the team’s spirit and determination as they aspire for Olympic glory.
