The Canucks' ECHL affiliate has a major announcement.
For many years, there has been discussion about the idea of women entering the NHL or a higher tier of hockey. Women's hockey has been prominent worldwide for generations and has garnered increased attention in recent months with the establishment of the new Professional Women's Hockey League, which will feature six franchises in North America and a 24-game regular season.
The Canucks' affiliate, the Kalamazoo Wings of the ECHL, has decided to introduce a female player to their roster on a Professional Tryout (PTO) contract. Her name is Mariah Fujimagari, and she is 29 years old. She previously played in the Swedish women's league.
This announcement certainly marks a historic moment for the Kalamazoo Wings, and it brings to mind the signing of Manon Rheaume by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the early 1990s. During the 1992 preseason, Rheaume tried out for the Lightning and played one preseason game against the St. Louis Blues, allowing two goals on nine shots.
In 1993, she played in another preseason game against the Boston Bruins.
It is signings like these that defy conventions and propel the game forward as it continues to develop and evolve.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 20 | 259 ANSWERS The Canucks' ECHL affiliate has a major announcement. Will the new Woman's professional League become a hit? | ||
| Yes | 99 | 38.2 % |
| No | 160 | 61.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
