Fleet’s Taylor Girard Eager To Return To Action After Season-Ending Injury
NATICK, Mass. — It was a long offseason for the Boston Fleet.
With their season ending on May 29, Fleet players had plenty of time to rest their bodies and begin their training regiment as they gear up for the season.
Taylor Girard was one of the few players who needed to change up their offseason because of a season-ending injury that caused her to miss the final regular-season game and the entire postseason.
“My offseason was a lot different this year. Just coming back from an injury,” Girard told reporters at the Fleet’s media day on Tuesday. “Missed the last half of the season, so I couldn’t really do a lot to start off when I got home to Michigan.”
During the time she was sidelined, Girard still found a way to be a part of the team.
“That process of sitting out, watching games and … it’s definitely not enjoyable. But, you find different ways to support your team,” Girard said. “I can’t support my team on the ice, but off the ice, it’s just instilling confidence in your teammates and being positive, bringing the energy even when I’m not out on the ice.
“You find your role in the team in a different way. Helps me grow a lot, too. I grew a lot this year having to switch my goals into something like being more vocal.”
Girard said she got back on the ice around the end of August or early September to prepare for the start of Fleet training camp, and she’s completely healed from her injury.
“Really excited to get the season started,” Girard said. “It’ll be a really, really really good season too.”
The 26-year-old Michigan native tallied four goals and two assists for six points across 23 games for the Fleet last season. Girard is ready to grow her game in the 2024-25 campaign.
“Just having confidence each and every game,” she said. “Just having faith in my own ability, I think that would be my biggest personal goal.”
The Fleet kick off their season north of the border against the Toronto Sceptres on Nov. 30. Boston will host defending Walter Cup champion Minnesota Frost in their home opener on Dec. 4 at Tsongas Center.