As we approach the first-ever PWHL Finals, I want to pause and reflect on our inaugural season.
We set out to create history, and in many ways, we did – starting with our opening game, January 1, watched by 2.9 million viewers across Canada. In April, we set the women’s hockey world record for attendance, 21,105 at Montreal’s Bell Centre.
We set out to inspire, and our players also were inspired in return by our amazing fans. From the home-made signs at every game to the ‘buzz’ in each of our arenas, where everyone is welcome, a PWHL game is a great place to be.
We set out to create a league that would be different, innovative and competitive. The first “jailbreak” shorthanded goal confirmed we could be different. PWHL Boston recorded a three-point victory, another innovation, to gain a playoff spot in its final regular-season game. By finishing atop the standings, PWHL Toronto earned the right to select its first-round playoff opponent. We also implemented the Gold Plan, through which New York earned the first pick in the next draft. We are proud to chart our own path, and that includes our own physical style of play – which our players love as much as our fans do.
We accomplished what many believed was impossible by launching a six-team league in just a few months. For that, I thank the PWHL staff of wonderful people who care deeply about our sport and its future. I thank our players, who perform at the highest levels and always make time to share moments with our fans. I thank our PWHL community, which is growing by the minute.
Soon, one of our team captains will lift The Walter Cup for the first time ever. Triumphantly, she will honor the rich past of our sport – and spark the dreams of champions in the years ahead.
Jayna Hefford, PWHL Senior Vice President of Hockey Operations