The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is making waves in the world of women’s sports, offering elite female hockey players a platform to shine and connecting with fans like never before. Since its founding in 2023, the league has been on a mission to elevate women’s hockey, and it’s already delivering on that promise with exciting teams, thrilling games, and a rapidly growing fan base.

Meet the PWHL Teams: The Original Six

The league’s debut season introduced six teams that are already building fierce rivalries and loyal followings:

• Boston Fleet
• Minnesota Frost
• Montréal Victoire
• New York Sirens
• Ottawa Charge
• Toronto Sceptres

These teams, known as the “Original Six,” are packed with a mix of veteran players and rising stars, making every matchup a must-watch. The PWHL made a smart move by placing teams in hockey-loving cities, ensuring strong support right from the start.

What Makes PWHL Games So Exciting?

With a 30-game schedule that runs from November to May, PWHL games deliver nonstop action. The league’s points system keeps the competition tight and every game meaningful:

• 3 points for a regulation win
• 2 points for an overtime or shootout win
• 1 point for an overtime or shootout loss
• 0 points for a regulation loss

At the end of the season, the top four teams battle it out in the playoffs, culminating in the ultimate prize: the Walter Cup. From fast-paced plays to nail-biting finishes, PWHL games are a treat for hockey fans.

Fresh Rules, Fresh Energy

The PWHL has shaken things up with some innovative rules that make its games unique and entertaining. Here are a few highlights:

• The “Jailbreak” Rule: If a team scores a shorthanded goal during a penalty kill, the penalty is wiped out. Talk about turning the tables!
• Body checking: Unlike many other women’s hockey leagues, the PWHL allows body checking, as long as it’s a genuine play for the puck. This brings an extra layer of intensity to the ice.
• Shootouts: The league uses a best-of-five shootout format, and players can take multiple attempts, adding strategy and drama to the mix.

These changes have made PWHL games faster, more physical, and more fun to watch.

The Buzz Around PWHL Attendance

It’s not just the players bringing their A-game—the fans are showing up in droves too. PWHL attendance saw a huge boost in the 2024-25 season, with season ticket sales jumping by 50%. The league even set a record for the highest attendance at a professional women’s hockey game, proving there’s serious demand for this level of play.

Making games accessible has been a key part of the league’s strategy. In Canada, games air on CBC and TSN, while fans in the U.S. can catch syndicated broadcasts. For global audiences, live streams on YouTube make sure no one misses the action. It’s this kind of outreach that’s helping the PWHL grow its fan base worldwide.

Big Plans for PWHL Expansion

With such strong momentum, it’s no surprise that the PWHL is looking to expand. Cities like Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago, Denver, Quebec City, and Calgary are all on the radar for potential new PWHL teams. This growth would not only bring hockey to more fans but also provide more opportunities for talented players to join the league.

Building the Future of Women’s Hockey

The PWHL isn’t just about the here and now. The league is investing in the future of women’s hockey with initiatives like the PWHL Breakthrough Cup, scheduled for April 2025 in Minneapolis. This event will bring together female players of all ages and skill levels, offering them the chance to learn from PWHL players and participate in activities designed to inspire the next generation of hockey stars.

What’s Next for the PWHL?

As the PWHL moves through its second season, it’s clear that this league is here to stay. With competitive games, innovative rules, rising PWHL attendance, and plans for new PWHL teams, the league is setting a strong foundation for the future.

Women’s hockey has never been more exciting, and the PWHL is leading the charge. For the latest news, schedules, and team updates, subscribe to our newsletter!