I’ve been a hockey fan for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Minnesota, I cheered for the Gopher men’s team, especially during the years when Minnesota didn’t have an NHL team. I didn’t play hockey myself; horseback riding was my sport, and while I loved watching hockey, it never occurred to me that girls could play. Women’s hockey wasn’t visible in my world.
That changed in 2012.
My husband John and I saw a promotion for $1 general admission tickets to a Gopher women’s game. We upgraded to reserved seats behind the bench at Ridder Arena, and from the moment the puck dropped, I was hooked. The speed, skill, and intensity of the women’s game blew me away. That team went undefeated and won the national championship, and they became my gateway into women’s hockey.
We went to more games that season, including a thrilling NCAA tournament match against North Dakota that went to overtime. When Ridder hosted the Frozen Four, we were there to see the Gophers close out their perfect season. I cried. I cheered. I fell in love with the game.
From there, my interest expanded beyond the Gophers. I started learning about top players from other programs and followed the Olympics closely. When the Minnesota Whitecaps joined the NWHL, I was thrilled to see professional women’s hockey come to my home state. I attended games, followed the team, and deepened my appreciation for the sport.
When the PWHPA formed and players stepped away from the NWHL to advocate for a sustainable professional league, I chose to support their vision. I stopped attending games, educated myself on their goals, and hoped for change.
Then came the PWHL.
Minnesota was named one of the original six teams, and I was overjoyed. I watched the draft live, celebrated Taylor Heise being picked first overall, and became a season ticket holder. That inaugural season was unforgettable—from the home opener to the Walter Cup win. It felt like a dream come true, and I can’t tell you how many happy tears I shed during every pivotal moment, from that draft to the Cup Finals.
As much as I loved the league and the sport, I found myself wanting more: more coverage, more clarity, more connection. That’s when I realized it was time to do something about it. Next week, I’ll share how Her Puck Perspective came to be—and why I believe women’s hockey deserves a louder voice. Read more here:
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