Baltimore’s newest women’s hockey venture, the Charm City Crush, has quickly become a talking point for enthusiasts seeking a fresh, inclusive presence on the ice. Founded in August 2024, the team entered the Mid‑Atlantic Women’s Hockey League (MAWHL) with a mission to combine competitive excellence with a strong community ethos.
Foundations of a Dream
The brainchild of Abby Dufoe and Amber Dubill, the Crush emerged from a casual rooftop conversation that quickly turned into a concrete plan. Dufoe, a former figure skater from Westchester, Pennsylvania, transitioned to hockey after an injury and has spent years navigating the scarcity of women’s hockey opportunities. Dubill, a Buffalo native, grew up playing boys’ hockey before moving into girls’ programs and eventually the goalie position, experiences that highlighted the isolation many female players face.
Both women assumed leadership roles — Dufoe as captain and Dubill as assistant captain — bringing personal histories of perseverance and advocacy to the squad. Their shared vision was to create a space where young athletes could see a viable path in hockey while feeling embraced by the city’s unique spirit, reflected in the team’s orange and purple color scheme.
The inaugural season proved the concept’s viability. The Crush reached the playoffs in their first year, a remarkable achievement that set the stage for a second season marked by steady improvement, finishing third in the league playoffs and solidifying their competitive footing.
Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the team’s identity. At Patterson Park’s Mimi DiPietro Family Skating Center, the Crush participated in the ‘Bridge the Gap’ fundraiser against the Baltimore Banners, an event designed to connect women’s hockey with local youth and raise resources for grassroots programs.
The impact extends beyond the rink. Younger players watch the Crush’s progress and see a sustainable model for women’s hockey in Baltimore, one that balances ambition with fiscal responsibility. Dufoe envisions expanding the roster into lower MAWHL divisions, creating additional entry points for aspiring athletes and strengthening local talent pipelines.
Sustainability remains a guiding principle. By managing costs carefully, deepening relationships with sponsors, and partnering with community organizations, the Crush aims to ensure that the team’s growth does not come at the expense of its core mission — providing a welcoming, competitive environment for women in hockey.