123,601 fans. 9 cities. 1 PWHL tour.
The PWHL Takeover Tour, which concluded in March, has solidified the fact that women’s hockey is not just on the rise; it’s already a thriving force.
Throughout January and March, the league made nine stops across North America, captivating over 123,000 fans and shattering attendance records at each venue. The overwhelming response demonstrated the genuine demand for professional women’s hockey, evident in every corner of the continent.
Canada dominated the attendance charts, with Vancouver, Quebec City, and Edmonton drawing massive crowds of 19,038, 18,259, and 17,518 fans, respectively. However, the United States also made a significant impact, with Detroit setting a new US pro women’s hockey attendance record by packing 14,288 fans into Little Caesars Arena.
The tour wasn’t just about the games; it was an unforgettable experience that brought players from Michigan, such as Abby Roque, Elle Hartje, and Taylor Girard, home to their fans. The diverse fan base, comprising individuals from every US state and all 13 Canadian provinces and territories, demonstrated their shared passion for the sport and their desire to be a part of something bigger.
Here are some captivating statistics from the tour:
- Over 80% of fans attended their first-ever PWHL game.
- 1,400+ autographs were signed.
- Nearly 1,000 girls participated in clinics.
- The league’s social following experienced a remarkable 30% growth.
- And let’s not forget how 648 Uncrustables, 864 applesauces, 1,080 gummy packs, and 1,296 bottles of Gatorade (Cool Blue was the most popular flavor) were consumed.
From the thrilling shootouts in Seattle to the historic moment in Hockeytown and the electrifying atmosphere in St. Louis, the tour showcased the undeniable excitement and passion for women’s hockey. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey for the league and its fans.
