The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) is set to capitalize on heightened interest following the Milano Cortina Olympics. With 61 Olympians now back on PWHL rinks, North America's professional women's ice hockey league offers fans a continued connection to the sport's elite.
Following the Olympic conclusion, the PWHL reported its two biggest home-venue ticket sales days of the season, which commenced in November. "What the entire world enjoyed in Milan was the highest level of Olympic women's hockey we've ever seen," stated Jayna Hefford, PWHL Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations. "The speed, the skill, the physicality, it's all been elevated, and the competitive balance is stronger than ever."
The league's 61 Olympians collectively saw their social media followings increase by 38 percent, exceeding 760,000 followers since the Olympics began. Merchandise sales also surged 101 percent compared to the season prior to the Games. PWHL games, available live on YouTube, experienced a 200 percent increase in video views on the league's official channel during the Olympic period.
The PWHL, North America's first fully professional women's hockey league, aims to leverage the Olympic momentum to attract new followers and showcase the women's game as a compelling companion to the NHL.