In less than a year since its inception, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has successfully completed its inaugural season with 72 televised or streamed games and consistently breaking attendance records. The launch of the league has brought together the best players in the world on a regular basis, outside of major events like the world championships and Olympics. This has placed women’s hockey on the map, coinciding with a period of increased interest in women’s sports, as seen in basketball and soccer in previous years. The PWHL, after years of starts and stops, is now off to a strong start and has the potential to capitalize on the growing appetite for elite women’s sports.
The success of the PWHL’s inaugural season has surpassed expectations, with over 392,000 fans attending games during the regular season, breaking records including a record crowd of 21,105 at the Canadiens’ Bell Centre for a Montreal-Toronto matchup. Television broadcasts have also attracted more viewers to women’s hockey in Canada and the U.S., following a similar trajectory to the WNBA and pro women’s soccer leagues. Despite this success, there is acknowledgment that there is still a long way to go economically and in terms of mainstream recognition, especially in the U.S. market where hockey is not as popular as other sports.
Women’s hockey still faces challenges in gaining mainstream attention due to its position behind football and other major sports in the U.S. Cheryl Cooky, a professor of women’s gender and sexuality studies, points out the double jeopardy women’s hockey faces due to the marginalization of both hockey and women’s sports. However, the league is optimistic about building a fan base, with current stars like Hilary Knight and Marie-Philip Poulin paving the way for the next generation of players. The focus is on developing role models that can inspire young girls to pursue hockey, despite the challenges of playing a sport with helmets and cages.
The support for the PWHL and women’s hockey in general reaffirms the need for a professional league for women to thrive. Companies like Bauer, CCM, Canadian Tire, Molson, Tim Hortons, and Barbie have already signed deals with the league, indicating growing interest and support for women’s sports. Expansion and increased salaries for players are on the horizon, with plans for competitions in Europe and an influx of talent from outside the U.S. and Canada. With the potential for limitless growth and opportunities in the future, the PWHL is poised to continue making strides in the world of women’s hockey.
The league’s organizers are committed to the long-term success of the PWHL and are focused on creating sustainable growth for the sport. They understand the importance of continued effort and dedication in building a strong foundation for women’s hockey to thrive. The inaugural season has been described as a watershed moment for hockey, providing a platform for girls and women to get involved in the sport. With a strong support system and partnerships with various brands, the PWHL is on the path to becoming a leading force in women’s sports, with the potential to shape the future of women’s hockey on a global scale.
