The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is set to debut in January, and one of its top priorities was to secure highly qualified general managers to help build strong foundations in each of the original six PWHL markets. The search process identified a multitude of impressive candidates, and the first six general managers have been announced. These individuals bring collective experience across the highest levels of the game and are poised to deliver professional standards for all players in the league.
Introducing the Inaugural General Managers
Among the inaugural group of general managers is Natalie Darwitz, who had a successful career as a player and won three medals with the U.S. women’s national team. She will be leading the Minnesota franchise. Danielle Marmer, who was a player development and scouting assistant with the Boston Bruins last season, becomes the general manager of the Boston franchise. Pascal Daoust, the general manager of the Val-d’Or Foreurs of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League since 2016, takes the helm of the New York franchise. Daniele Sauvageau, who coached Canada’s women to their first Olympic gold medal in 2002, will be leading the Montreal franchise. Michael Hirshfeld, the executive director of the NHL Coaches’ Association for the past seven years, becomes the general manager of the Ottawa franchise. Lastly, Gina Kingsbury, who served as vice president of hockey operations at Hockey Canada, will be the general manager of the Toronto franchise.
With these highly qualified general managers on board, the PWHL aims to establish itself as the premier professional women’s hockey league in North America. The league will play its games in a variety of facilities, ranging from NHL-sized rinks to minor and junior league arenas, providing the players with top-notch environments to showcase their skills. The PWHL is fully funded by Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Mark Walter and his wife, Kimbra, who purchased assets of the Premier Hockey Federation to dissolve the league and launch the PWHL.
The PWHL recognizes that having competent general managers is crucial for building strong foundations in each of the league’s original six markets. These individuals bring extensive experience both on and off the ice, making them well-equipped to develop and shape their respective franchises. Their collective knowledge and expertise will be instrumental in guiding the growth of women’s hockey at the professional level.
Creating Opportunities for Players
The inaugural season of the PWHL is an exciting time for women’s hockey, as it presents new opportunities for players. The league will kickstart its rosters during a free agency signing period, allowing players to showcase their talents and secure spots in the teams. Additionally, a draft will be held to select the majority of the league’s founding players. These processes ensure that the PWHL is a league where talented female athletes can thrive and have a platform to pursue their dreams in professional hockey.
The PWHL’s commitment to delivering professional standards for all players is reflected in its decision to appoint these talented and experienced general managers. With their leadership and guidance, the league aims to set the standard for women’s hockey in North America. Their track records of success, both as players and in their various managerial roles, make them well-suited to drive the growth and development of the PWHL.
The appointment of the first six general managers in the PWHL marks a significant step forward for women’s hockey. With experienced individuals like Natalie Darwitz, Danielle Marmer, Pascal Daoust, Daniele Sauvageau, Michael Hirshfeld, and Gina Kingsbury at the helm, the league is poised to make a strong impact. These general managers will not only contribute to the success of their respective franchises but also pave the way for future generations of female hockey players, providing them with opportunities to compete at the highest level. The PWHL is on track to become the premier women’s hockey league in North America and inspire young girls to dream big in the sport they love.
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