PWHL attendance, scoring up this season with expansion plans on horizon
The Professional Women’s Hockey League is experiencing a surge in attendance and scoring as it enters its second season. With the league considering expanding by two franchises for the next year, excitement is palpable among fans and players alike.
Executive Vice President of Business Operations, Amy Scheer, expressed optimism about the league’s growth, highlighting the increased fan engagement and the league’s solidification within the hockey community. The decision on expansion is expected to be announced by early April, with Detroit emerging as a potential front-runner. Additionally, the success of neutral site Takeover Tour games in cities like Seattle, Denver, and Vancouver has bolstered the league’s appeal.
Attendance figures have seen a significant uptick, with an average of 7,365 fans per game compared to 5,500 in the previous season. The introduction of the Takeover Tour has been a major contributing factor, with games drawing impressive crowds in various cities. The Toronto Sceptres’ move to a larger venue and the New York Sirens’ establishment at the Prudential Center have also played a role in boosting attendance numbers.
On the ice, scoring has increased to 5.18 goals per game, up from 4.8 in the previous season. The introduction of a no-escape rule has led to more power-play goals, making the game faster and more entertaining for fans. The playoff race is heating up, with familiar teams like Montreal, Toronto, Boston, and Minnesota vying for top positions.
Toronto forward Hannah Miller has emerged as a standout player, leading the league in points with an impressive scoring streak. Her performance, along with the return of MVP Natalie Spooner, has propelled Toronto to a strong start. Meanwhile, the Boston Fleet has embraced a new identity as the “Bad Girls,” drawing inspiration from former WNBA star Sue Bird.
As the PWHL continues to grow and evolve, fans can expect more excitement on and off the ice. With the potential for expansion on the horizon and competitive playoff races underway, the future looks bright for women’s hockey in the professional realm.
