League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Transactions

Women's sports attract new fans, redefining sports consumption model

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 7:51 PM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Women's sports attract new fans, redefining sports consumption model

Summary

The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has reported a significant growth in attendance, averaging over 9,300 fans per game during the 2025-26 season. This rise is part of a broader trend in women's sports, with many fans being newcomers to professional sports, rather than existing enthusiasts. Industry leaders emphasize the need for innovative experiences and inclusive environments to sustain this growth. With numbers indicating that 60-80% of PWHL attendees had never previously attended an NHL game, efforts to enhance various aspects of game-day experiences are underway. The PWHL's popularity is also reflected in increasing merchandise sales and viewership across platforms.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•PWHL averaged 9,304 fans per game in the 2025-26 season.
•60-80% of PWHL attendees are new to professional sports.
•Merchandise sales and viewership have seen significant increases.
•Industry leaders stress the importance of inclusivity and innovation.
•Detroit awarded a new PWHL franchise, expanding to nine teams.

Latest Updates

7:51 PMYahoo Sports — The New Women’s Sports Consumer Is Here And The Industry Needs To Be Ready

What they're saying

"
Women's sports are cultivating a distinct, new fanbase, rather than merely converting existing sports enthusiasts. Sustaining this diverse community requires innovative experiences and facilities, accessible pricing, and a commitment to belonging, redefining sports consumption for a new era.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NHL Hockey