INUVIK - Forward Karla DeBastien might not want to brag about her on-ice skills but the organizer of Inuvik's women's hockey league doesn't mind doing it for her.

Karla DeBastien, left, enjoys a moment with Julianne Fuller just before game time on Tuesday evening at the Roy 'Sugloo' Ipana Memorial Arena. - Andrew Rankin/NNSL photo

"She has a great shot," said Julianne Fuller with a laugh.

Not only that, but in the last three years DeBastien's been in the league, the 20-year-old mother has pretty much improved every part of her game, Fuller added.

"Her stamina on the ice is great, her progression her endurance her skating ability," said Fuller.

"She's done really well."

Having never played hockey before, DeBastien had to learn how to stop on her skates. Luckily many of her counterparts, including Fuller, were more than willing to teach her the fundamentals, something the long-time wrestler said she's grateful for.

"Before then I had no experience but I've always wanted to play hockey, I just never had the chance to," she said. "But the girls were always great helping me."

Her older sister Jennifer is also a league regular and both enjoy the opportunity to get out with the girls and have some fun. She is hoping more will show up throughout the season.

DeBastien is one of several league players who have had to learn the fundamentals first before being able to hold their own. In fact, Fuller says the league has always embraced women of all skill levels.

"We just try to provide a fun comfortable environment and it's so satisfying to see these women enjoying themselves and improving."

Since Oct. 5, the women have been meeting each Tuesday from 9:15 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. with sessions focusing on drills and scrimmages.

The more the merrier, said Fuller.

For all of Fuller's praise DeBastien's not willing to put herself in the category of Inuvik's female hockey elite. Nor is she willing to claim she's better than her sister.

"I've gotten better over the years and it feels pretty good," she said. "But there are a lot of good players in town."

She is also grateful Fuller has taken on the responsibility to start the league every year.

"She's a great leader and she's makes people feel comfortable. She makes it a lot of fun."

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