Andrea Ironside is a remarkable hockey player whose leadership and competitive spirit have left a lasting impact on women’s hockey, contributing to her team’s national championship success. Her journey began in minor hockey at the age of six in Collingwood and continued as she honed her skills at Jean Vanier C.H.S. After capturing a provincial OFSAA championship in 2004, Andrea made her mark at Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) as a standout player in Varsity hockey. A talented right winger, she excelled at every level: minor, high school, University, and women’s hockey.

Upon enrolling at WLU in 2005, Andrea quickly became a key player for the Golden Hawks. As team captain, she led with distinction, earning accolades as a four-time OUA All-Star, an All-Canadian, and a three-time CIS Championship All-Star. Her career highlights include an impressive five consecutive OUA Championships. Over her 128 games with the Golden Hawks, Andrea tallied 58 goals and 64 assists, totaling 122 points, and she claimed the OUA scoring title during the 2008-2009 season.

On the international stage, Andrea showcased her leadership as a member of Team Canada at the 2009 Winter Universiade in Harbin, China, and as team captain in 2011 in Erzurum, Turkey. Under her guidance, Canada secured two gold medals, reflecting her vital role in the team’s achievements. “Wearing the maple leaf is a dream come true. It was exciting and an honor to represent Canada,” she shared with Collingwood Today.

Throughout her tenure at Laurier, Andrea received three Laurier Athlete of the Week honors, two CIS championship tournament All-Star selections, and one CIS Second Team All-Canadian nod. After graduating with a degree in Kinesiology, she continued her hockey journey with the Brampton Thunder in the CWHL for two seasons (2010-2012).

Today, Andrea lives in Guelph, Ontario, where she has dedicated the past nine years to serving in Toronto Paramedic Services. Her personal life is equally inspiring; she is married to Cindy Eadie, a celebrated Hall of Fame hockey goaltender.

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomed Andrea Ironside as an enshrined member of Collingwood sporting history.