Female participation in hockey is on the rise, with an increase in the registration of female players, coaches, and officials. However, despite the growth, these groups still represent less than 20 percent of the overall hockey programming, according to Hockey Canada.
Gillian Apps, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and chair of a subcommittee focused on enhancing opportunities for women and girls in hockey, emphasized the need to push for further growth beyond current levels. Female hockey registration in Canada reached 115,000 last season, with Hockey Canada aiming for 170,000 registrations by 2030.
To support this growth, Hockey Canada unveiled 14 recommendations at Rogers Place, including the proposal for each provincial and territorial association to employ a dedicated staff member for women and girls hockey. Additionally, the recommendations highlighted the importance of providing equitable access to ice and facilities, as well as encouraging participation in hockey regardless of age or skill level.
Apps, who played a key role in spearheading these initiatives, stressed the significance of prioritizing improvements in women and girls hockey. She emphasized the need for concrete actions rather than symbolic gestures to drive positive change in the sport.
Hockey Canada also outlined plans to enhance leadership and coaching opportunities for women, increase the visibility of women’s hockey, and generate revenue from events like the upcoming 2027 women’s world championship in Quebec City to fund expanded programming for women and girls.
Despite some challenges, including lower-than-expected attendance at a recent Rivalry Series game, Hockey Canada remains committed to supporting and growing women’s hockey across the country. The organization received an overwhelming response to its recent survey, indicating strong interest and engagement from the hockey community.