DETROIT – Detroit is getting a new pro hockey team -- and it’s not the Red Wings. The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) announced it is expanding to Detroit, with the new franchise set to begin play in the 2026-27 season.
Read: Detroit to get Professional Women’s Hockey League team -- here’s what we know
The announcement drew cheers at Little Caesars Arena, where girls’ hockey players and fans celebrated the news and what it could mean for the next generation of athletes.
“It’s super exciting and I’m really hyped,” said Camryn Kay, one of the young players who attended.
Teams from local girls’ hockey clubs were in the crowd, including the Detroit Bulldogs, who said the moment felt long overdue.
“It’s extremely special,” one player said. Another -- an 8-year-old -- told Local 4 she’s “been waiting for this moment all of my life,” prompting a laugh from her teammates.
Local women’s hockey advocate and longtime fan Susan McDowell said the impact goes far beyond a new team on the schedule.
“It is huge. It’s absolutely huge,” McDowell said. “You’ve always seen the meme about if you can’t see it, you can’t be it.”
Leaders involved with bringing the league to Detroit called it a milestone moment for the city. Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies, said the expansion represents more than business.
“This is more than a business announcement,” Ilitch said.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield also highlighted the significance of the league’s arrival and what it signals for women in sports.
“It’s deeply meaningful for me to ensure that women are seen, valued, respected, heard,” Sheffield said. “It shows that, again, women in sports are leading, there’s a lot of momentum.”
For many young players, the excitement is personal -- and practical. They said having a PWHL team in town gives them something tangible to chase.
“They’ve looked up to these girls, and to have it finally here in Detroit is huge,” said Courtney Metzger. “It really gives them a pathway.”
Detroit’s team name has not been announced yet, but PWHL staff said fans can place deposits for season tickets now.