The PWHL is set to hold neutral-site matches in six different Canadian cities this season, with plans to introduce new teams in the upcoming season. The eight-team league will continue its trend of playing games in Quebec City and Edmonton for the second consecutive season.
Additionally, four new Canadian cities have been included in the league’s Takeover Tour schedule this season: Halifax, Hamilton, Winnipeg, and Calgary. Last season, more than 123,000 fans attended games during the league’s nine-stop Takeover Tour, with Vancouver and Seattle emerging as expansion franchises for the current season.
Looking ahead, the league is gearing up to play 16 neutral-site games across 11 locations in North America. Executive vice president of business operations, Amy Scheer, has revealed plans to expand the league by two to four teams in the next season, emphasizing the league’s growth trajectory.
Quebec City and Edmonton witnessed sold-out games last season, highlighting the enthusiasm for women’s hockey in these regions. Quebec City’s interest in hosting a PWHL team has been evident, while Edmonton’s history with a pro women’s hockey team adds to the anticipation of potential new teams in these areas.
Halifax and Calgary, cities with rich hockey backgrounds, are also on the league’s radar for expansion. The league’s expansion plans signify a significant step towards broadening its reach and popularity in the women’s hockey landscape.
Halifax, in particular, will host two games this season, along with Edmonton, contributing to the city’s growing presence in women’s hockey. The Takeover Tour will also extend its footprint to cities like Denver, Detroit, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, D.C., showcasing the league’s commitment to engaging fans across various regions.
As the PWHL continues to gain momentum, the upcoming season promises an exciting lineup of matches and expansion opportunities, affirming the league’s dedication to fostering women’s hockey on a broader scale.