On the concourse of TD Place, the home of the Ottawa Charge, a sculpture was unveiled which marks the beginning of a new chapter of women’s hockey while honouring and celebrating the many trailblazers who paved the way for a brand new professional women’s hockey league.
“The Inaugural Six,” a four foot tall, six foot wide sculpture in the shape of a goalie’s mask, was crafted by Canadian artist Briony Douglas, and is constructed from the hockey sticks used by players throughout the first season of the PWHL. It has been described as a “tribute [which] captures the passion, grit and perseverance of the women who are redefining the future of professional hockey.”
“I think it’s so cool to have something like this that commemorates the inaugural season,” said captain Brianne Jenner. “I think it would be cool for our fans in Ottawa to get a chance to see it and to see that they’re a part of history as one of those inaugural six teams.”
“Seeing this sculpture is honestly emotional,” said Emerance Maschmeyer. “It’s a statement. It really represents the pioneers of our game, the hard work and dedication of those players and is just a celebration of women’s hockey and where we’re at professionally.”
This sculpture will be on display between Gates 1 and 2 for fans to behold during games on February 20th versus the Boston Fleet, the team’s first game since returning home from the Takeover Tour game in Edmonton, as well as February 22nd when they face off against their provincial rival Toronto Sceptres.