3rd PWHL season to begin on Nov. 21

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is poised to enter its third season on November 21, 2023, with an exciting expansion from six teams to eight. This season marks a significant milestone not only due to the addition of new teams but also as it promises a more competitive landscape for women’s hockey fans. The two incoming franchises, PWHL Vancouver and PWHL Seattle, will make their debuts that night at Vancouver’s Pacific Coliseum.

### A Historic Season Launch

The season debut is historic for several reasons. Vancouver’s Pacific Coliseum becomes the first venue to serve as the anchor for a team in the league, paving the way for an enriched hockey experience for fans in the region. The inaugural game between the PWHL Vancouver and PWHL Seattle promises to be a captivating encounter, kicking off at 10 p.m. ET. Earlier in the evening, the defending champions, the Minnesota Frost, will seek to secure their third consecutive Walter Cup by hosting the Toronto Sceptres at 7 p.m. ET.

This season, the PWHL increases its commitment to growth and accessibility by expanding the number of scheduled games from 90 to 120, with each of the eight teams participating in 30 games throughout the season. This frequency marks a significant opportunity for fans to engage with their favorite teams and players, fostering a deeper connection within the community.

### The Significance of Expansion

Jayna Hefford, the PWHL’s executive vice-president of hockey operations, notes that the introduction of Vancouver and Seattle is a monumental step for the league. “Season three will be truly special,” she stated, emphasizing the excitement around the expansion. Hefford highlighted the new and returning players who will impact the game, contributing to a season filled with competitive edge and entertainment.

### The Season’s Opening Weekend

The opening weekend of the PWHL will see all eight teams compete. On Saturday, November 22, the Ottawa Charge will host the New York Sirens at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the Montreal Victoire visiting the Boston Fleet on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. Specific broadcasting details are still pending, leaving fans curious about how they will tune into the action.

Additionally, the league plans to continue its “Takeover Tour,” which saw PWHL teams travel to nine cities last season to engage with local fans. This tour not only promotes the league but also showcases the talent and excitement of women’s hockey in various communities.

### Team Transformations and Player Highlights

As the season approaches, many of the existing teams will look different than they did last year. Notably, the New York Sirens have completed significant roster changes, losing four of last season’s top-five scorers along with their starting goaltender. This infusion of new talent highlights the team’s commitment to building for the future around promising players like Sarah Fillier, the previous rookie of the year.

Vancouver’s roster is bolstered by strength and skill, headlined by three defenders who won the Walter Cup last season alongside the Frost—Sophie Jaques, Claire Thompson, and Mellissa Channell-Watkins. For locals like forward Jennifer Gardiner, the opportunity to play in front of home fans at the Pacific Coliseum is monumental, as she remarked about her childhood dreams coming to fruition.

The Seattle team, with its mix of size and experience, will be spearheaded by established stars like Hilary Knight and Alex Carpenter. As the teams take shape this season, fans can expect an intriguing blend of veteran presence and fresh talent, aiming not just for wins but for a memorable hockey experience.

### Navigating the Olympic Landscape

This season will be unique in its scheduling due to the Olympic break, which will influence player availability and team strategies. The PWHL will pause from December 8 to 15, 2023, for international training and competition, including pivotal Canada-U.S. Rivalry Series games. With the Olympic Games scheduled to commence in February, the PWHL season will play a critical role in determining roster selections for the Canadian national team.

As athletes participate in this competitive season, fans will keep a close watch on performances, knowing that the stakes for international selection are higher than ever.

### Conclusion: The Path Forward

The PWHL is set to revolutionize women’s hockey this season, with elevated competition, a broader fanbase, and an enhanced experience both on and off the ice. As the excitement builds towards the opening games, the emphasis on community engagement and local support promises to make this season unforgettable.

The introduction of Vancouver and Seattle as expansion teams not only enhances the league’s geographical diversity but also solidifies its status as a vibrant platform for women’s hockey. As fans gear up to rally behind their teams, the PWHL looks forward to opening night and a season filled with promise, skill, and unyielding passion for the sport.

With 120 games on the horizon, 2023-2024 is bound to be a thrilling chapter in the evolution of women’s hockey, one that will further empower and inspire future generations of female athletes.

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