Potential PWHL markets know that an announcement from the league is imminent regarding expansion. Jackie Smith, a councillor and mayoral candidate in Quebec City who has backed the push for another PWHL team in the province believes her city has proven itself to the league and women's hockey world.
"Quebec City has proven itself," said Smith in a release. "We have the best arena to host a team, we have a population that loves the sport, and a loyal fan base ready to attend games in droves. No one questions our city's hockey culture, and we are fortunate to have a strong pool of talented young players. During the Takeover Tour, Quebec City demonstrated that we are ready to have our team. A team in the magnificent Videotron Centre would put a spotlight on the league and its players and elevate women’s hockey in general."
The belief however, is that the PWHL plans to move West in their upcoming expansion with a focus on broadcasting and reaching new geographic regions.
"In the event the league prefers to expand west, I humbly suggest it consider the relevance of keeping teams in cities like Boston and New York, where attendances are meager. A move could be beneficial, given that the record crowds Boston and New York are attracting are comparable to average attendance of minor league hockey in Quebec City," continued Smith.
Quebec City drew 18,259 to their Takeover Tour game at the Videotron Centre.