The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is making significant strides in its expansion efforts, initiating its Takeover Tour. The tour aims to explore potential markets for new franchises, with Halifax being one of the targeted cities.
PWHL Takeover Tour Launches in Halifax
The Takeover Tour commenced with a thrilling atmosphere at the Scotiabank Centre, where the Toronto Sceptres and Montréal Victoire engaged with local fans. During open practices, excited children cheered, eager to witness their favorite players. Many children even skipped school for this unique opportunity, showcasing the enthusiasm for professional women’s hockey.
Community Engagement and Youth Clinics
Following the open practices, Victoire players hosted coaching clinics for youth athletes on the Scotiabank Centre ice. This interactive approach is integral to the PWHL’s focus on community engagement, especially as Halifax vies for a future franchise.
Expanding the PWHL
The PWHL currently consists of eight teams, including those in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Boston. The league aspires to expand to twelve teams, possibly within the next season. Amy Scheer, the league’s executive vice president of business operations, indicated that the Takeover Tour serves as the foundation for cities interested in hosting a franchise.
Supportive Local Environment
The initial response in Halifax has been overwhelmingly positive, with both scheduled games selling out. Community leaders and organized events reflect local support, indicating the city’s readiness for professional women’s hockey. Scheer noted that the quick ticket sales demonstrate the community’s enthusiasm.
- First game: January 11 between Boston Fleet and Ottawa Charge
- Venue: Scotiabank Centre, capacity approximately 10,500
- League’s future markets: Chicago, Detroit, Edmonton, Denver among potential cities
Key Considerations for Expansion
The PWHL is evaluating various factors crucial for establishing a franchise, such as infrastructure, training facilities, and travel logistics. The league acknowledges potential challenges concerning direct flight availability to some of its markets.
Halifax’s infrastructure, notably the Scotiabank Centre, meets the league’s venue specifications. Additionally, considerations for practice facilities are underway, highlighting the city’s readiness to support a new team.
A Homecoming for Players
The Takeover Tour also features a homecoming for many Victoire and Sceptres players, including head coaches Kori Cheverie and Troy Ryan. Both coaches expressed excitement about returning to their roots, reinforcing the strong connection between the team and the local community.
Sceptres captain Blayre Turnbull shared the significance of playing in her home province, reflecting on the growth of women’s hockey in Nova Scotia. This local connection fosters a strong fan base, essential for the success of a potential franchise.
Future Outlook
The PWHL’s Takeover Tour in Halifax marks a critical step toward possible franchise establishment. With supportive fans and engaged communities, the league is poised for a promising future in expanding professional women’s hockey.
