A New Chapter for Women's Hockey
The 2026 Professional Women's Hockey League draft in Detroit turned into a celebration of Western New York talent, as Nichols alumna Victoria Mariano and Nardin graduate Lara Beecher heard their names called among the league's newest prospects.
Mariano, who waited until the fourth round, was selected 47th overall by the Ottawa Charge, while Beecher followed in the sixth round as the 69th pick of the Minnesota Frost, a testament to the depth of skill emerging from the region.
The draft also coincided with an ambitious expansion plan, with the league confirming that it will field twelve teams next season, up from nine, signaling a rapid growth trajectory.
Among the new franchises, PWHL Hamilton will make its debut this fall at the TD Coliseum, positioning the city as the closest professional women's hockey hub to Buffalo and promising a fresh local rivalry.
For the players, the moment represents more than a contract; it is a gateway to a professional platform that has long been elusive, and for the community it underscores the growing visibility of women's sports in the Niagara region.
The expansion also brings logistical challenges, but league officials say the response from fans and sponsors has been overwhelmingly positive.
Organizers have already begun mapping out schedules, securing venues, and partnering with local businesses to ensure that the inaugural season captures the imagination of a new generation of fans.
Meanwhile, the involvement of universities such as Northeastern and Clarkson, which have contributed talent and infrastructure, highlights the collaborative effort needed to sustain a professional league.