New England Women's Hockey League
Ice hockey is not just a sport, it is a way of life for many enthusiastic players around the world. It is a high-speed game that requires strength, endurance, and skill. In the US, hockey is a popular sport played by both men and women, and the New England Women's Hockey League (NEWHL) is one of the most prestigious women's hockey leagues in the country. In this article, we will explore the history, structure, and significance of the NEWHL.
History of the NEWHL
The NEWHL was established in 2016 as an amateur women's ice hockey league in New England. The founders of the league saw a need for a competitive hockey league for women in the region, as there were few options available at the time. The league was created with the aim of promoting women's hockey and providing an avenue for players to showcase their skills and compete at a higher level.
The first season of the NEWHL (2016-2017) had four teams: Boston Shamrocks, East Coast Wizards, Northern Cyclones, and Vermont Lady Cats. Since then, the league has expanded to six teams with the addition of the Connecticut Whale and the Worcester Blades.
Structure of the NEWHL
The NEWHL is an amateur women's ice hockey league that is registered as a non-profit organization. The league is governed by a Board of Governors, which is made up of representatives from each team in the league. The Board of Governors is responsible for setting league policies, rules, and regulations, as well as overseeing league operations.
The NEWHL currently has six teams, which are divided into two divisions: The NWHL Blue Division and The NWHL White Division. The teams play each other in a round-robin format during the regular season, with each team playing 20 games. The top four teams in the league advance to the playoffs, which are held in March.
Significance of the NEWHL
The NEWHL has become a significant platform for women's hockey in New England. The league provides an opportunity for women to play hockey at a high level and compete against other skilled players. The league is also a stepping stone for players who aspire to play professional hockey in the National Women's Hockey League (NWHL).
Moreover, the NEWHL serves as a platform to promote women's hockey and raise awareness of the sport. It provides a forum for players, coaches, and fans to come together and support women's hockey in the region.
Conclusion
The New England Women's Hockey League has quickly established itself as an important platform for women's ice hockey in the region. The league provides an opportunity for women to play hockey at a high level and showcase their skills while promoting the sport of hockey. The league's expansion to six teams and the addition of new franchises are positive developments that bode well for the future of women's hockey in New England.
