Vancouver Named First City for PWHL Expansion Team

Exciting news is on the horizon for hockey fans as the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is gearing up to unveil its first expansion team in Vancouver next week! This game-changing announcement is set to bring even more talent and excitement to the ice, with expectations for the team to kick off its inaugural season in 2025-26.

Historic Announcement on the Way

A news advisory sent out earlier this week has stirred anticipation across the sports community, inviting media to a special press conference on April 23. The event, hinted to be a ‘historic announcement’ for British Columbia, will feature local government officials and key stakeholders. This is an event you won’t want to miss!

The PWHL's Expanding Footprint

Vancouver joins the PWHL less than two years after its inception in January 2024, which originally featured six markets: Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Boston, New York, and Minnesota. Thanks to record-breaking attendance and impressive television ratings in its first season, the league is now set for expansion, showcasing its potential.

Ownership and Future Plans

Mark Walter, the billionaire owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, alongside his wife Kimbra, leads the PWHL and its teams. The league's model, described by Dodgers president Stan Kasten as a robust single-entity ownership, is here to stay. This structure might be one reason for the PWHL's swift success!

Where Will the Vancouver Team Play?

While the exact venue remains uncertain, the Pacific Coliseum, former home to the WHL’s Vancouver Giants and boasting over 15,000 seats, stands out as a strong candidate.

Fan Enthusiasm Drives Expansion

Interest in the league is booming, with over 20 proposals from different cities vying for a PWHL team. The Vancouver stop of the PWHL's Takeover Tour drew an outstanding 18,940 fans, marking the event as the most attended of the tour and the second highest of the season.

More Teams on the Horizon?

Looking ahead, the PWHL has hinted at the possibility of adding a second team, which could ideally be located nearby to Vancouver to enhance logistics and costs. With the league kicking off its Takeover Tour in Seattle, it’s clear that the PWHL is positioned to grow significantly in North America.