For well-established leagues, logistics of competition in the midst of a pandemic is no easy task. For the National Women’s Hockey League entering its sixth season of formation, a pandemic means more hurdles. No fans in the stands, which is somewhat of a standard, but all games in a bubble. One rink in Lake Placid, New York. That’s all.
As the 2021 Isobel Cup kicks off on hallowed hockey ground, the shortened season is a staunch reminder of how far the players, the game and the world has come. An effort to dive into the professional sports landscape with women’s hockey was a challenge in and of itself. In fact, the the fight is far from over in changing the stage for professional hockey. But the NWHL’s persistence is the key factor. And in combating a deadly pandemic, it’s further proof for the half-decade existing league that nothing comes easy.
Staffs must wear masks, and in step with other professional leagues, there’s plenty of safety guidelines in place. In addition to the protocols, this irregular season lasts just two weeks, concluding February 5th. Six teams, one building; the competition is nothing but fierce.
Communication is key.
And while fans of Riveters, Whitecaps, Beauts, Whale, Pride and the league’s newest addition, the Six cannot partake in the in-person festivities, fan-involvement is not out of the picture. NWHL’s approach and reach across social media in order to grow the league and the sport is taking Twitter by storm.
In addition to its growing popularity on Twitter, a streaming rights deal with Twitch.tv allows for unprecedented interaction between commentators and supporters. While the league intends to simulcast tournament games on NBC Sports Network, the progressive nature of this league in all facets, including communication, sets the access and intrigue apart from the four major leagues in North America.
Interaction isn’t the only action.
On the ice, it’s without discussion that these are world class athletes duking it out for the crown. All six teams possess an opportunity to shine at Lake Placid, but its the Boston Pride and Minnesota Whitecaps to keep an eye on. Minnesota’s title-defense cut short in 2020 due to COVID-19 continues as a source of ignition for the flame under the bench. Boston wasn’t far behind, and the budding rivalry between the two heavyweights on full display over a two-week span is sure to bloom.
Approaching 365 days of forced complacency due to a threatening virus, we’ve fallen victim to old habits, inability and hesitations to branch out and grow outside of our comfort zone. The NWHL allows us an opportunity to achieve that sensation again. And since the league’s inception six years ago, now, 2021 the iron is hot and the league is striking.
Find a team geographically compliant to root for, or jump on the bandwagon of the Toronto Six, the fresh face of the growing, evolving league. The opportunity is there, it costs nothing to tune in, but the entertainment and excitement is priceless.