What's Happening?
The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) is in discussions with the NHL's Ottawa Senators to secure a long-term future for the Ottawa Charge, a women's hockey franchise, in the Canadian capital. The talks focus on the Charge playing their home games
at the Senators' arena, the Canadian Tire Centre. This move comes as the Charge's current home, TD Place, is undergoing renovations that will reduce its seating capacity, making it financially unfeasible for the team to continue playing there. PWHL senior VP of business operations, Amy Scheer, highlighted the positive relationship with the Senators, noting the involvement of Senators president Cyril Leeder and owner Michael Andlauer. The Charge, one of the PWHL's original six franchises, has seen strong attendance, averaging about 7,225 fans per game this season.
Why It's Important?
This potential partnership is significant as it could ensure the stability and growth of women's hockey in Ottawa. By securing a venue with the Senators, the Charge can maintain or even increase their fan base, which is crucial for financial viability. The collaboration also reflects a broader trend of NHL teams supporting women's hockey, which can lead to increased visibility and investment in the sport. For the Ottawa community, this partnership could enhance local sports culture and provide more opportunities for youth engagement in hockey. The Senators' involvement underscores a commitment to growing the game for all genders, potentially setting a precedent for other NHL teams to follow.
What's Next?
The PWHL and the Ottawa Senators will continue discussions to finalize the terms of the partnership. The Charge is scheduled to play a game against Montreal at the Canadian Tire Centre, which could serve as a test for future games at the venue. The Senators are also in the early stages of planning a new arena closer to downtown Ottawa, which could further benefit the Charge if the partnership is successful. The PWHL is also planning to expand its league, which could bring additional teams and opportunities for collaboration with NHL franchises.
