The PWHL is set to hold games at neutral sites in six different Canadian cities this season, with plans to introduce new teams as early as the upcoming season. This marks the second consecutive season where the eight-team league will feature matches in Quebec City and Edmonton. Additionally, four new Canadian cities will join the league’s Takeover Tour this season, including Halifax, Hamilton, Winnipeg, and Calgary.
Last season, the league’s Takeover Tour attracted over 123,000 fans across nine stops. Vancouver and Seattle were chosen as expansion franchises for the current season. Looking ahead, the PWHL aims to host 16 neutral-site games at 11 locations in North America.
Executive Vice President Amy Scheer revealed the league’s intention to expand by two to four teams next season during a recent meeting with Ottawa City Council. The league’s focus on growth was evident with the addition of teams in Vancouver and Seattle.
Quebec City and Edmonton experienced sold-out games last season, showcasing the strong interest in women’s hockey. Quebec City, in particular, has expressed a desire for a local PWHL team, given the success of past games. Edmonton’s history in women’s hockey, including the former Western Women’s Hockey League team, adds to the league’s geographical presence.
Halifax is one of the two Canadian cities hosting two games this season, alongside Edmonton. The Scotiabank Centre in Halifax, known for hosting significant hockey events, is poised to welcome the PWHL games. The league’s expansion into new territories like Calgary reflects the growing popularity of women’s hockey across Canada.
The PWHL’s Takeover Tour will extend beyond Canada to cities like Denver, Detroit, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. The league’s commitment to engaging fans and partnering with enthusiastic cities underscores its ambition to expand further in the future.
For a detailed schedule of the PWHL Takeover Tour games, visit the link provided.
