A New Pathway onto the Ice
The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has announced a partnership with cosmetics brand e.l.f. Beauty and the Women of Colour Hockey Collective (WCHC) to create two programs that aim to broaden participation among girls and women of color in hockey.
Starting July 10‑12 at the Ford Performance Centre, a free three‑day camp will welcome women and girls of color to their first on‑ice experience. The camp is staffed by current PWHL athletes, former professionals, collegiate players and seasoned coaches.
Coaches and Community Support
This year’s coaching lineup features defender Sophie Jaques of the Vancouver franchise, forward Mikyla Grant‑Mentis of the Seattle team and Jade Iginla of the Hamilton squad, who will guide participants through skill drills and game‑situational play.
The newly launched PWHL + e.l.f. Grant Program will provide financial assistance, mentorship and community events to 50 girls of color each year, while also offering them tickets and meet‑ups at PWHL games across all markets.
Amy Scheer, PWHL Executive Vice President of Business Operations, said the initiatives reflect a commitment to representation and belonging, noting that seeing role models who share their background can change the trajectory of a young player’s confidence.
The Women of Colour Hockey Collective, a Canadian non‑profit, continues to champion access, representation and inclusion for historically under‑represented communities, reinforcing the broader mission of the partnership.