Women’s hockey in southern California is witnessing a surge of interest, driven by coordinated efforts between the Minnesota Frost and the Anaheim Ducks.
The three‑day summer camp, held from July 31 to August 2 in Irvine, attracted players ranging from their 20s to their 50s, spanning a wide spectrum of skill levels.
A Community‑Centric Milestone
Organized by Frost Director of Hockey and Game Operations Claire Bjerke in partnership with the Ducks, the event served as a flagship component of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s Grassroots Hockey program.
The coaching staff featured Frost forward Dominique Petrie, a California native, alongside Celeste Loyatho, Marissa Tandon, Annie O’Donnell, Kimberly Atwood, McKenna Bieger and Cayla Barnes, all of whom emphasized safety through structured warm‑ups and cool‑downs tailored to older, less experienced athletes.
Attendees repeatedly praised the encouraging atmosphere, with many highlighting Dominique Petrie’s motivating feedback as a standout element of the camp experience.
The sold‑out turnout underscores a growing appetite for women’s hockey in the region, even as the PWHL prepares for its fourth season and looks to broaden its outreach despite the absence of a local franchise.
Beyond the camp, the Ducks’ Fly Her Way initiative continues to nurture talent from ages four to twelve, while the Lady Ducks development program supports collegiate and professional players, reinforcing the community‑driven trajectory of the sport.