The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is set for an exciting climax as two Canadian teams prepare to battle for the coveted Walter Cup. The Montreal Victoire secured their place in the final with a triumphant victory against the Minnesota Frost, the reigning champions, solidifying the Cup’s return to Canada. The Victoire will face the Ottawa Charge this Thursday, marking a significant moment not just for the teams but for women’s sports across the nation.
A Rivalry Renewed
Kori Cheverie, head coach of the Victoire, expressed her excitement about the upcoming final, highlighting the potential for a fierce rivalry. “It’s going to be something that the fans haven’t seen yet,” she stated. “I think our league continues to grow the game on both sides of the border, and I believe people are genuinely excited for the Walter Cup to find a new home this year.”
This final is more than a simple match; it represents a turning point for many young girls and women interested in pursuing sports professionally.
Representation Matters
Ainka Jess, founder of the advocacy group She’s 4 Sports, emphasised the significance of representation in sports. “If you can see it, then you can dream it,” Jess remarked, noting that children from diverse backgrounds now have role models on the ice. This visibility helps to create pathways for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that success at the professional level is achievable.
The PWHL, which began its journey in 2024, has expanded rapidly, adding teams and increasing the number of games played. Following the success of its players at the 2026 Olympics, the league has also seen a substantial increase in ticket sales and online engagement. Notably, the PWHL reported that between February 22 and 28, it experienced its highest ticket sales week since expanding to eight teams in April 2025.
Growing Interest in Women’s Sports
Interest in women’s sports is on the rise, as indicated by statistics showing that website traffic surged nearly sixfold during the Olympic period. Moreover, views on PWHL-related content on platforms like YouTube have skyrocketed, increasing by 200 per cent. Following the Olympics, three of the first four games held in Canadian markets reported sell-out crowds, reflecting a burgeoning enthusiasm for women’s hockey.
Fran Rider, president and CEO of the Ontario Women’s Hockey Association, believes that this momentum could attract further investment. “We need to get more sponsors on board, and we guarantee that every major sponsor will receive more loyalty than they expected,” she said. “This sport is built on strong values, and that can create realistic dreams for young girls, allowing them to proudly say, ‘I play on a girls’ hockey team.’”
Expanding Opportunities
The PWHL has announced the addition of three new teams, including one based in Hamilton, demonstrating its commitment to growth. Although the team’s name has yet to be revealed, it will play at the TD Coliseum, which boasts a capacity of up to 19,000 fans. This expansion translates into more opportunities for women to participate in hockey, both as players and in various roles within the sport, from coaching to administrative positions.
Jess pointed out that league expansion is crucial for increasing the number of roster spots available, ultimately paving the way for more female athletes to pursue professional hockey careers. “When you talk about expansion across any league, that just means more opportunities for our Canadian women,” she explained.
A Game to Inspire
As the puck drops for Game 1 of the Walter Cup final at 7 p.m. this Thursday, Ottawa Charge captain Brianne Jenner hopes the event will resonate with young girls watching. “I think there are going to be a lot of young girls that will be inspired by these playoffs for years to come,” she said. “I hope they dream of playing in the PWHL one day.”
Why it Matters
The all-Canadian final of the PWHL not only showcases elite talent but also serves as a powerful reminder of the strides being made in women’s sports. As the league gains traction and visibility, it cultivates an environment where young girls can envision their futures on the ice. This moment is a testament to the growing recognition of women’s contributions to sports, and it underscores the importance of representation and opportunity in inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
