The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is set to experience an exhilarating season with the introduction of its newest expansion teams: the Seattle Torrent and Vancouver Goldeneyes. Both teams possess considerable talent as they prepare to compete in their inaugural match-up on Friday, where the Goldeneyes will host the Torrent. Excitingly, they hold the top two spots in season ticket sales for the 2025-26 season, highlighting the enthusiasm surrounding their debut in the league.
Amy Scheer, executive vice president of business operations for the PWHL, expressed pride in the establishment of the two franchises, noting their rapid growth as strong markets. “They’ve quickly become two of our strongest markets and have set themselves up as examples on how to do this in the future,” Scheer stated.
Key to both teams’ ambitions are the star players they successfully acquired during the expansion process. The Goldeneyes’ roster boasts standout forward Sarah Nurse and defender Claire Thompson, while the Torrent features powerhouse forwards Hilary Knight and Alex Carpenter. Their presence is anticipated to significantly enhance the competitive edge of each team.
Torrent coach Steve O’Rourke shared his respect for Knight and Carpenter, who both bring extensive experience from international competitions. He sees them as role models for the team and believes that their seasoned backgrounds will provide invaluable support. “They’ve seen everything. They’ve seen the start of this league,” O’Rourke remarked.
On the other hand, the Goldeneyes have similarly high hopes with their core group of Nurse, Thompson, along with forwards Hannah Miller and Jenn Gardiner. Coach Brian Idalski, who has a rich background coaching both in the collegiate ranks and internationally, has faith in the potential of rookie forward Michelle Karvinen, who brings a wealth of experience from playing overseas.
Both teams are aware of the excitement and challenges that come with being new in the league. Vancouver’s general manager, Cara Gardner Morey, emphasized the optimism within the organization as they prepare for the season. “You can tell that they know that they have a lot of talent, and they have a lot of grit and heart,” she said.
Similarly, the Torrent’s Jenna Buglioni highlighted the team’s fierce competitive spirit, promising a fast and physical playing style. “We’re going to be tough to play against,” Buglioni stated, reflecting both teams’ commitment to establishing a strong presence in the league.
With a balanced blend of experienced veterans and energetic newcomers, both the Seattle Torrent and Vancouver Goldeneyes are poised to make their mark in this new chapter of women’s hockey. Their development and progress will not only be a testament to their skills but also inspire future generations of female athletes. As they gear up for their opener, the momentum and excitement surrounding these teams signify a promising season ahead for the PWHL.