CCM Becomes Official Equipment Supplier for Professional Women’s Hockey League
CCM, a leading hockey equipment manufacturer, has been announced as the official equipment supplier for the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). The partnership will see CCM provide helmets, protective gear, skates, and sticks to players starting from the league’s inaugural season in January 2024. This announcement comes after Canadian Tire Corporation was revealed as the first official partner of the PWHL last month.
CCM CEO Marrouane Nabih expressed his pride in partnering with the PWHL and emphasized CCM’s commitment to growing and making hockey more inclusive. Nabih stated that working with the talented individuals of the PWHL to support women’s hockey aligns with CCM’s brand values and long-term goals. He also expressed excitement about the upcoming season and building a strong relationship with the league.
In addition to CCM, Bauer will also be one of the league’s official partners and equipment suppliers, according to a league source. This means that players in the PWHL will have multiple equipment options. Furthermore, players will have the opportunity to sign individual endorsement deals, and those with existing deals can continue to wear their preferred equipment.
Jayna Hefford, the PWHL’s Senior VP of Hockey Operations, expressed her pride in partnering with CCM. She highlighted CCM’s rich history of equipping the world’s best hockey players and its commitment to promoting and growing the game. Hefford mentioned that PWHL athletes will benefit from CCM’s high-quality and innovative line of sticks, skates, and equipment when they hit the ice for the inaugural season.
CCM’s involvement in women’s hockey is not new. The company was the official equipment supplier for the Professional Women’s Hockey Players’ Association during the 2022-23 season. CCM gained attention when it stepped up to pay Brianna Decker $25,000 after she appeared to post the best time in the premier passing drill at the 2019 NHL All-Star Game. This gesture showcased CCM’s support for women’s hockey and its commitment to recognizing and rewarding talented players.
CCM also endorses several women’s hockey players, including NHL stars like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby. The company has developed a head-to-toe line of equipment specifically designed for women, making it a pioneer in the industry. Catherine Ward, CCM’s Vice President of Product Commercialization and Innovation, emphasized the importance of providing equipment that meets the unique needs of female players.
Bauer, another prominent hockey equipment manufacturer, has also been involved in women’s hockey. Bauer was a supplier for the PWHPA before the 2022-23 season and provided support to the now-defunct Canadian Women’s Hockey League. The company boasts a roster of players highlighted by stars Hilary Knight and Marie-Philip Poulin.
Warrior Hockey, the equipment sponsor for the PWHL’s predecessor, the Premier Hockey Federation, has also played a significant role in supporting women’s hockey.
The partnership between CCM and the PWHL is a significant step forward for women’s hockey. It demonstrates the growing recognition and support for female athletes in the sport. With CCM’s high-quality equipment and commitment to inclusivity, PWHL players can expect to have access to top-of-the-line gear that will enhance their performance on the ice.
As the league prepares for its inaugural season in January 2024, the partnership with CCM will undoubtedly contribute to the success and growth of women’s hockey. The collaboration between CCM, Bauer, and other equipment suppliers will provide players with a range of options to choose from, ensuring they can find the equipment that best suits their needs and preferences.
Overall, this partnership marks an exciting milestone for the PWHL and women’s hockey as a whole. With CCM’s support and expertise, the league is poised to make a significant impact and create more opportunities for female athletes in the sport.