The USA Has Officially Been Granted 3 New Pro Hockey Teams

With a focus on elite women athletes, the PWHL is expected to attract the world's best players. A forthcoming free agency period will kick off the team-building process, leading up to the start of games in January 2024. Teams will engage in a 24-game regular season schedule, promising action-packed competition.

The PWHL's origins trace back to the merger of two existing entities: the Premier Hockey Federation (formerly the National Women's Hockey League) and the Professional Women's Hockey Players Association. The acquisition of the PHF and the blending of player pools by Mark Walter Group and BJK Enterprises marked a significant step forward.

Board member and Dodgers president Stan Kasten expressed pride in providing a platform for women athletes, recognizing the potential of hockey to captivate fans. The inclusion of passionate hockey markets such as Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa is expected to further amplify the league's impact.

The Toronto Six, champions of the PHF's previous iteration, will be remembered as they transition to the PWHL. While the new teams are currently identified by city names, more details are on the horizon. PWHL Senior Vice President Jayna Hefford highlighted the growing enthusiasm for women's sports and the league's potential to elevate the achievements of top women's players worldwide.

As the PWHL sets its sights on its debut, anticipation is building for a vibrant and impactful future for women's professional hockey in Canada.