A Strategic Mix of Experience and Youth
The Professional Women’s Hockey League’s newest franchise in Hamilton has released the roster that will define its first season, blending seasoned veterans with the excitement of freshly drafted talent.
Elyssa Biederman, selected 30th overall in the fourth round, arrives after a standout collegiate career at Colgate University, where she honed a versatile skill set that includes playmaking and adaptability on the ice.
Having spent three seasons alongside Kristýna Kaltounková, Biederman learned to adjust her game when her teammate was drafted first overall, an experience that sharpened her ability to read the flow of play and create scoring chances for others.
Jade Iginla, the 18th overall pick in the second round, brings a physical brand of hockey that emphasizes forechecking pressure and net-front presence, qualities she hopes to translate into a professional setting.
During her lone season at Shattuck‑St. Mary’s and four years at Brown University, Iginla helped the Bears record their first two winning campaigns in nearly two decades, a testament to her competitive drive and leadership.
Both players are spending the offseason training alongside current PWHL athletes and fellow draft picks, using the time to acclimate to the league’s pace while also engaging in community outreach through the Women of Color Hockey Collective, an initiative Iginla champions to broaden access to the sport.
The organization’s free‑agent acquisitions, many of whom have logged extensive professional minutes, provide a sturdy backbone, while the rookies are expected to inject skill, confidence, and a fresh perspective as the league prepares for its inaugural season.