PWHL Unveils Expansion Teams: Welcome the Torrent and Goldeneyes

Read Time:3 Minute, 2 Second

NEW YORK/TORONTO—The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has taken a decisive step forward, officially unveiling the names and logos for its two highly anticipated expansion franchises: the Seattle Torrent and the Vancouver Goldeneyes. The announcement transforms the PWHL from its “Original Six” to a formidable eight-team league, setting the stage for an immediate and electric Pacific Northwest rivalry.

The new identities are steeped in regional flavor, drawing inspiration from the unique landscapes and cultures of the Pacific Northwest.

The Expansion Wave: Seattle and Vancouver

The two new teams will immediately enter the fray, facing off in their inaugural game on November 21 at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Seattle Torrent: The Force of the Flow

The name Seattle Torrent pays homage to the powerful waterways that shape and define the Washington landscape.

Inspiration: A “torrent” is a strong, fast-moving stream of water, symbolizing unstoppable force, energy, and the team’s determination to carve its own path.
Logo: The logo features a stylized ‘S’ that doubles as an image of rushing water, reflecting the river channels and dynamic motion.
Colors: The primary colors are Slate Green and Cream, complemented by various oceanic and glacial blues and greys, linking the team to the region’s vast natural environment and its existing sports community (e.g., the Seahawks, Mariners, and Kraken).

Vancouver Goldeneyes: Fierce and Resilient

The Vancouver Goldeneyes bring an avian element to the PWHL, inspired by a majestic local bird.

Inspiration: The Common Goldeneye is a species of sea duck native to Vancouver’s coastlines and mountain vistas, known for its fierce protectiveness, speed, strength, and precision.
Logo: The crest features a bold, feathery golden eye encircled by wings, with the entire design tilted to reflect its pointed focus toward the Pacific Northwest.
Colors: The palette centers on Pacific Blue and Coastal Cream, with striking accents of Earthy Bronze and Sunset Gold.

The Original Six: Foundations of the League

The two new teams join the PWHL’s established charter franchises, all of which received their permanent names and brands ahead of the second season, replacing the placeholder “PWHL City” monikers:

Team	Name	Inspiration/Meaning	Primary Colors
Boston Fleet	A nod to Boston’s rich maritime history and its collective, unified spirit. The logo is a stylized ‘B’ integrated with an anchor.	Deep Green, Aqua, Navy, Teal
Minnesota Frost	Embodies the “State of Hockey’s” deep-rooted love for the ice and the long, cold winters.	Purple, Icy Blue, White
Montréal Victoire	The French word for “Victory.” It represents the city’s competitive spirit and constant pursuit of achievement. The logo features a hidden ‘M’ and a fleur-de-lis.	Deep Burgundy, Black, White
New York Sirens	A tribute to the unmistakable energy, pace, and rhythmic sounds of New York City (including the wail of a goal horn).	Vibrant Teal, Black, White
Ottawa Charge	References the City of Ottawa’s motto, “Advance – Ottawa – En Avant”, symbolizing forward momentum and dynamic growth.	Red, Gold, Black
Toronto Sceptres	Embodies Toronto’s “Queen City” moniker and regal history, with the sceptre being a symbol of power and strength.	Royal Blue, Gold, White

The unveiling of these identities marks a new era of professionalism and brand development for the PWHL. While team gear featuring the new logos is immediately available, the new jerseys for the expansion teams will follow the tradition of the inaugural six, prominently featuring the city name across the chest for their debut season, with the full logo integration expected for the subsequent season.

The league is now ready to drop the puck on a groundbreaking new season, fueled by the energy of eight uniquely branded franchises and a fresh cross-border rivalry.