The Hamilton Hammers have their minimum wage surpassing that of the new Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) team by $27,000. This disparity highlights ongoing pay inequalities in professional hockey.
Salary Disparities in Hockey
The Hamilton Hammers, an American Hockey League (AHL) team serving as a farm team for the NHL’s New York Islanders, has a minimum salary of $56,500 US (approximately $78,000 CAD) for the upcoming season. In contrast, the minimum salary for players on the PWHL could be as low as $37,131.50 US (about $51,000 CAD).
- PWHL Minimum Salary: $37,131.50 US
- HAMMERS Minimum Wage: $56,500 US
- Difference: $27,000
Recent Developments
Salary figures released by the PWHL players’ union show that many players earned below the league minimum last season. A total of 121 players made less than the stated minimum, with 17 receiving the lowest figures. These figures will increase by three percent annually until the end of the current collective bargaining agreement in 2031.
For context, the highest-earning PWHL player last season was Emily Clark from the Ottawa Charge, who took home $126,090 US. This statistic stands in stark contrast to AHL player salaries, which are not publicly available.
Comparing Leagues
Michele Donnelly, a sports management professor at Brock University, noted the significant differences between the leagues’ structures. While the PWHL was established in 2024, the AHL has a much longer history, having been formed through a merger in the 1930s. Each PWHL team is owned by The Walter Group, contrasting with the AHL, where teams are owned by NHL franchises.
Expanding Professional Women’s Hockey
During a recent discussion, Meghan Duggan, the newly appointed general manager of the Hamilton team, emphasized the progress women’s hockey has made. In 2017, she was involved in negotiations that resulted in better pay for the women’s national team, a significant step in a sport where professional opportunities were limited.
Duggan expressed that players deserve compensation reflective of their contributions, noting that the PWHL is building a successful league, offering players a chance to earn a living wage.
Looking Ahead
The PWHL is set to expand to 12 teams, adding new franchises in cities like Detroit, Las Vegas, and San Jose. The comparisons between men’s and women’s sports have often led to skepticism regarding women’s potential revenue generation. However, interest in women’s hockey is burgeoning as leagues like the PWHL rise in prominence.
| League | Minimum Salary (US) | Highest Salary (US) |
|---|---|---|
| PWHL | $37,131.50 | $126,090 (Emily Clark) |
| AHL | $56,500 | Not disclosed |
As women’s leagues continue to improve and gain visibility, the conversation about pay equity in sports remains crucial. With increased investment and support, the future for women’s professional hockey looks promising.
