Mentorship Takes Center Stage in Detroit
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) brought together about one hundred local high school girls and a roster of elite female hockey players for a mentorship event in Detroit, Michigan.
Presented by Acrisure and co‑hosted with Strong Girls United, the gathering aimed to foster confidence, leadership and resilience among participants, offering a rare chance to learn directly from role models who have excelled at the highest level of the sport.
The centerpiece of the afternoon was a panel featuring Michigan natives Elle Hartje, Megan Keller and Clara Van Wieren, moderated by Olympic gold‑medalist Tessa Bonhomme. The trio shared personal stories of perseverance and discussed the qualities needed to thrive both on and off the ice.
Attendees then broke into small groups for leadership workshops focused on goal‑setting and self‑advocacy, gaining practical tools they could apply in school and beyond.
A rooftop networking reception followed, where the girls mingled with the players, snapped group photos and engaged in one‑on‑one conversations that turned mentorship into lasting connections.
The event wrapped up with remarks from the presenting sponsor, who highlighted the importance of embracing individual strengths and creating supportive environments for young athletes.
Beyond the rink, the day underscored how mentorship can shape futures, encouraging the participants to see themselves as leaders in any path they choose.