By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 28, 2025

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is skating into new territory—this time, right here in the Lower Mainland. In a landmark announcement, the PWHL has confirmed that Vancouver will be the league’s first expansion team, debuting in the 2025–26 season. This move solidifies Vancouver’s place as a cornerstone of women’s professional hockey and reflects the growing demand for elite-level women’s sports in Canada.

A Natural Fit for Hockey Culture

Vancouver’s inclusion in the PWHL isn’t just a strategic expansion—it’s a natural evolution. Following a high-energy exhibition game hosted in the city earlier this year, where nearly 19,000 fans packed the arena, the message was clear: Vancouver is ready. The success of that game showcased the region’s passion, not only for hockey but also for increasing visibility and support for women in sport.

Home Ice: The Pacific Coliseum

The new team will make its home at the historic Pacific Coliseum, a venue rich with legacy and once home to the Vancouver Canucks before their move to Rogers Arena. Now, it will serve as the backdrop for a new chapter in Canadian hockey—a place where rising stars and seasoned veterans alike will take the ice in pursuit of championship glory.

A Bold Identity: 'Pacific Blue' Pride

The team will proudly wear “Pacific blue” as their primary color, a bold and fitting nod to the West Coast’s oceanic strength and coastal spirit. The color symbolizes unity, resilience, and the cool confidence that this team is sure to bring into the league.

A Win for Women’s Hockey—and Vancouver

This expansion is more than a roster addition. It’s a testament to the hard-fought progress of women’s hockey and the growing call for professional opportunities for female athletes. Vancouver’s arrival in the PWHL reinforces the league’s momentum and signals a brighter, more inclusive future for professional sports in Canada.

It also opens doors for local talent, young athletes, and aspiring hockey players across British Columbia who now have a professional team to look up to—right in their own backyard.

Looking Ahead to the 2025–26 Season

As the PWHL continues to build its brand and audience across North America, the introduction of a Vancouver franchise sets the stage for thrilling rivalries, unforgettable moments, and a new generation of hockey heroes. Expect more announcements in the coming months as the team begins to take shape—coaching staff, roster selections, branding, and ticket availability.

Vancouver isn’t just joining a league. It’s joining a movement.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) #Pacific Coliseum #Pacific Blue

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