Farace is a right-winger and is playing for the Whitby Wolves in Pool A while Johnston, also a right-winger is with the Central York Panthers in Pool C.
Both girls took the leap in age groups, skipping U18 (Midget) and going straight to U22.
“It's definitely a big jump from where we came,” explained Farace. “The physicality and the pace of the game change so much. It's a big thing to adapt to.”
“I feel I'm definitely a lot more comfortable at the end of the season than at the start,” said Johnston. “I grew up playing hockey playing with all my best friends. We became a family but then I went to a whole new team of older girls. I was so nervous but they treat me like their younger sister.”
They are continuing to develop their skills as they face stiffer competition with U22 women but they understand that this tournament is going to be a significant learning experience heading into Etobicoke.
“I hope I learn new skills and when I'm playing against them, I'll take away things from them,” explained Johnston. “I definitely want to play my own game but adapt and expand my game. We just need to see if we can handle to pressure of the weekend.”
“I just need to play my game and do what I'm best at to perform this weekend,” said Farace. “The results will take care of themselves.”
The opportunity to play with the U22 women is still surreal to both girls as they have been waiting for this opportunity to play at a high level of hockey.
“I would always get nervous from getting cut from the Midget team because I'm so much younger,” said Johnston. “Growing up and pushing myself to be able to be in this situation, now I realize how much it paid off and looking back, it's just great to be here.”
Farace’s goal is to eventually play for a provincial or national team while Johnston wants to get a scholarship to play hockey or lacrosse abroad and make a national team.
