The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has confirmed disciplinary actions following several incidents during recent games. The decisions were made by the PWHL Player Safety Committee as of March 18, 2026.
Peyton Anderson Suspension
Peyton Anderson, a forward for the Minnesota Frost, has been suspended for one game. This decision comes after a review of an unpenalized illegal body check that occurred at 8:38 in the third period of a game against the New York Sirens. The committee found that Anderson failed to approach her opponent safely, exhibited no intention to play the puck, and delivered a significant hit that made contact with her opponent’s head. This action violated PWHL Rule 52.1 regarding body checking. Notably, this is the first instance of supplemental discipline for Anderson in her 19-game career.
Fines Issued to Other Players
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Britta Curl-Salemme
The Minnesota Frost forward has received a $250 fine due to a cross-check. This incident happened at 13:49 of the third period against New York. The Player Safety Committee determined that Curl-Salemme’s actions placed her opponent in a vulnerable position, violating PWHL Rule 60.1. This marks the fourth time Curl-Salemme has faced disciplinary action, following two one-game suspensions last season and one in the 2025 playoffs.
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Maggie Flaherty
Montreal Victoire defender Maggie Flaherty was fined $250 for an illegal body check at 7:35 in the game’s third period against Boston. The committee found that Flaherty performed a forceful hit while her opponent was in a vulnerable state, violating PWHL Rules 52.3 and 52.5. This is Flaherty’s second incident that has resulted in supplemental discipline, with her first leading to a two-game suspension last season.
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Loren Gabel
Loren Gabel, a forward for the Boston Fleet, has also been fined $250. This penalty arose from her actions following Flaherty’s hit. Gabel interfered from the bench, pushing an opponent while officials were attempting to de-escalate a situation. This conduct breached PWHL Rule 57 on interference and Rule 77 on unsportsmanlike conduct. Gabel has not had any prior incidents reviewed by the Player Safety Committee.
Player Safety Committee Overview
The PWHL Player Safety Committee oversees game conduct and enforces supplementary discipline. Chaired by Jayna Hefford, the committee includes various prominent members, such as Chris Burkett and Cassie Campbell-Pascall. Their role is crucial in maintaining fair play and player safety throughout the league.
