Sunohara will become the 11th North American women’s player in the IIHF Hall when she is formally inducted on May 25 at the 2025 Men’s World Championship in Stockholm.
She’ll join Canadians Danielle Goyette (2013), Geraldine Heaney (2008), Angela James (2008), Caroline Ouellette (2023), Fran Rider (2015), Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser (2019), and Americans Karyn Bye-Dietz (2011), Natalie Darwitz (2024), Cammi Granato (2008) and Angela Ruggiero (2017).
“My experiences playing and even coaching has been so rewarding and fulfilling that receiving an individual honor, I don’t feel worthy because they are such amazing individuals and players,” Sunohara said.
But James, the first Black woman to be enshrined in the IIHF Hall of Fame and the Hockey Hall of Fame (2010), said Sunohara’s induction is an honor long overdue.
“Vicky had hands, scoring abilities next to none,” said James, regarded as the Wayne Gretzky of the women’s game after she helped Canada win four IIHF World Championships (1990, 1992, 1994, 1997). “She was top notch. She was also a great leader as well back in the day.”
James said Sunohara is humble by nature and never viewed herself as “The One,” that star player.
“But she is that one … and she should be celebrated, absolutely,” James said. “Being inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame, you know, once it starts, it’s going to keep rolling for her, and I hope it does. We’ll see her in many more, that’s for sure.”
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