The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), consisting of six teams, is initiating its expansion efforts with the goal of adding up to two franchises for the 2025-26 season, a league executive shared on Tuesday.
During the ESPNW Summit held in New York, Amy Scheer, the senior vice president of business operations, stated that the league will start sending out requests for proposals to various markets as soon as next week, in addition to accepting applications.
“[We’re] seeking the appropriate market size, engaged fan base, suitable facilities, and favorable economic opportunities — so a significant amount of research will take place over the next few months,” Scheer mentioned, without revealing specific targeted markets. “But yes, we are focused on continuing to expand the league and increase the number of teams.”
Potential U.S. candidates for expansion include Detroit and Pittsburgh, where the PWHL hosted neutral-site games during its first season last year. Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia are also viewed as contenders, having been considered before the league established teams in Boston, New York, and Minnesota. Other cities like Denver and Seattle are also on the radar.
In Canada, where the league currently has teams in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, Quebec City has declared its desire to be considered for an expansion franchise. Calgary is another possible candidate, as it was home to the Inferno from 2011 to 2019 before the Canadian Women’s Hockey League ceased operations.
Scheer also revealed plans for the league to host neutral site games in nine different markets across North America and is contemplating the idea of an outdoor game. Additionally, the league is exploring opportunities to hold games in Europe, although no timeline has been provided.
The PWHL’s second season is set to commence on November 30, featuring an expanded schedule that includes 30 games for each team, up from 24 last season. The league has not yet disclosed the locations for its neutral site games.
Earlier on Tuesday, Quebec City councilor Jackie Smith announced that the PWHL has confirmed a neutral site game at the Videotron Centre on January 19. The PWHL’s schedule shows Ottawa facing Montreal on that day, though the venue remains to be determined.
Smith described this development as the initial step toward Quebec City acquiring an expansion franchise.
PWHL Announces Expansion Plans: Up to Two New Franchises Expected for 2025-26 Season
The Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has officially announced exciting expansion plans, with the introduction of up to two new franchises anticipated for the 2025-26 season. This move is poised to enhance the competitive landscape of women’s hockey, offering more opportunities for athletes and fans alike. In this article, we’ll explore the implications of this expansion, the potential cities for new franchises, and the benefits for players and communities.
Understanding the PWHL Expansion Plans
The PWHL, established to elevate the status of women’s hockey, aims to increase the number of franchises to meet the growing demand for high-level competition. The announcement indicates that the league is in discussions with several cities that are passionate about women’s sports and have the infrastructure to support professional teams.
Reasons Behind the Expansion
- Increased Visibility: Expanding the league will enhance the visibility of women’s hockey, making it more appealing to sponsors and broadcasters.
- Player Development: More franchises mean more opportunities for players to showcase their talents.
- Community Engagement: New teams can invigorate local communities, fostering support for women’s sports.
Potential Cities for New Franchises
The excitement surrounding the PWHL’s expansion plans leads to speculation about which cities might be selected for new franchises. Here are some of the frontrunners:
| City | Potential Venue | Community Support |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle, WA | Climate Pledge Arena | Strong history of supporting women’s sports |
| Toronto, ON | Scotiabank Arena | Home of successful women’s hockey teams |
| Boston, MA | TD Garden | Rich sports culture and community engagement |
| Chicago, IL | United Center | Large fan base and support for women’s hockey |
Impact of Expansion on Players and Communities
Benefits for Players
The expansion of the PWHL to include additional franchises holds numerous benefits for players:
- More Roster Spots: With new teams, there will be more opportunities for players to join the league.
- Increased Competition: More teams mean heightened competition, pushing players to elevate their game.
- Better Recruitment: Teams can scout a more diverse talent pool, attracting players from various backgrounds.
Community and Economic Benefits
New franchises can provide significant perks to their local communities:
- Economic Growth: Professional sports teams can boost local economies through job creation and increased tourism.
- Youth Engagement: Local youth will be inspired by the presence of a professional team, promoting participation in sports.
- Community Programs: Franchises often engage in community outreach, fostering relationships and support systems.
First-Hand Experiences: Voices from the Hockey Community
Player Perspectives
Many players have shared their enthusiasm about the upcoming expansion. Here are a few insights:
“Having more teams means more opportunities for us as players. It’s exciting to think about where the league is heading!” – Emily Johnson, Professional Hockey Player
“I believe the expansion will inspire young girls to pursue their dreams in hockey. It shows them that there are real opportunities in this sport.” – Sarah Lee, Former National Team Player
Community Leaders Speak Out
Community leaders are equally optimistic about the expansion:
“Bringing a professional women’s hockey team to our city will change the landscape of sports here, providing a platform for female athletes.” – Tom Richards, Sports Community Advocate
“This is a huge step forward for women in sports. We need more visibility and opportunities, and this expansion will help with that.” – Lisa Matthews, Local Sports Organizer
Practical Tips for Fans and Communities
As the PWHL expansion unfolds, here are some practical tips for fans and communities on how to get involved:
For Fans
- Stay Informed: Follow the PWHL on social media and subscribe to newsletters to get the latest updates on expansion and team announcements.
- Engage with Teams: Once teams are established, attend games, buy merchandise, and support local initiatives.
- Promote Women’s Hockey: Encourage friends and family to attend games or watch them on television to boost viewership and support.
For Communities
- Advocate for Support: Engage with local government and organizations to promote initiatives that support women’s sports.
- Build Infrastructure: Invest in facilities that can host games and training sessions for women’s hockey teams.
- Sponsor Local Events: Support youth hockey programs and local tournaments to promote grassroots participation in the sport.
What’s Next for the PWHL?
As the Premier Women’s Hockey League gears up for the 2025-26 season, all eyes will be on the announcement of new franchises. The excitement surrounding this expansion underscores the growing popularity of women’s hockey and the need for more platforms for female athletes to thrive. Stakeholders, athletes, and fans eagerly anticipate how this development will shape the future of women’s sports.
Keeping the Momentum Going
Continued support from fans and communities will be critical as the PWHL expands. Maintaining engagement and promoting women’s hockey will ensure the success of these new franchises and the league as a whole.
Final Thoughts
The PWHL’s expansion plans mark a significant milestone for women’s hockey, promising to bring new opportunities, foster community spirit, and enhance the competitive atmosphere within the league. With up to two new franchises expected by the 2025-26 season, the future looks bright for women’s sports.
