The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has been making significant strides in promoting and developing women’s hockey across North America. However, Winnipeg, a city rich with hockey culture and passion, is currently without a PWHL team. This absence not only deprives the residents of Manitoba of professional women's hockey but also limits opportunities for upcoming women athletes in the region. It is time for this to change.

Winnipeg has a deep-rooted love for hockey. Our city has demonstrated its enthusiasm and support for the sport through its local teams and community programs. Hockey is not just a sport in Winnipeg—it's a part of our identity. Yet, the lack of a PWHL team means that young women in Winnipeg who dream of playing professionally lack a local role model to aspire to.

Moreover, the economic benefits of hosting a PWHL team cannot be ignored. A new team would stimulate local business, create jobs, and bring tourism to the city. The community would thrive both culturally and economically, with local events and matches drawing crowds and attention.

Winnipeg is more than equipped to support a PWHL team with its excellent infrastructure, dedicated fan base, and passionate community. Establishing a PWHL team here would not only enhance the visibility of women's sports but also inspire the next generation of female hockey players.

We urge the PWHL and relevant stakeholders to seriously consider Winnipeg as the next destination for a PWHL team. By doing so, we would be investing in the future of women's sports and creating a more inclusive sporting environment across Canada.

 

Benefits of a PWHL team in Winnipeg : 

 

1. Strong guaranteed fan support

Winnipeg is one of the most hockey-passionate cities in Canada. The demand is already proven with NHL attendance and junior hockey support, meaning a women’s team would likely draw strong local crowds immediately.

2. Growth of women’s sports in Manitoba

A team would:

Increase visibility for women’s hockey
Inspire young girls to play competitively
Strengthen female athlete pathways in the province

 

3. Economic and city impact

A PWHL team would bring:

Game-day spending at local restaurants, hotels, and transit
New jobs (coaches, arena staff, marketing, operations)
More events and tourism during the season

 

4. Community identity + pride

A Winnipeg team would give the city:

A new professional sports identity in winter months
More community engagement around games and events
A chance to build a brand-new fan culture from the ground up

 

5. League expansion makes it realistic

The PWHL is already expanding into new Canadian cities and selling out arenas in new markets, showing that adding another Canadian hockey market like Winnipeg is realistic and aligned with current growth.

Please sign this petition to show your support for a PWHL team in Winnipeg. Together, we can bring top-tier professional women's hockey to Manitoba and inspire countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.