Will the PWHL’s Aggressive Expansion Succeed?

Irwin Kishner, co-chair of Herrick's Sports Law Group and co-chair of Herrick's Corporate Department, was quoted in Front Office Sports in an article discussing the rapid expansion of the professional women's hockey league into new markets for the upcoming season. 

According to the article, the league's decision to expand "is a direct response to the demand we've seen for the PWHL." In addition, the GM's of the leagues new teams are confident that there is enough talent to sustain all of the new roster spots. 

In addressing any potential "growing pains" the article reports that a spokesperson for the PWHL noted that “[b]uilding a sustainable league is a long-term process, and when the demand is there, it’s important to continue investing in growth through expansion.”  

The article also notes that the PWHL operates as a single entity ownership model, which has eliminated ownership disputes and facilitated the quick expansion. 

But at some point, Irwin predicts, "the PWHL will sell off its teams as individually owned franchises. (The Premier Lacrosse League, also single-entity at the moment, is planning for the same eventual move.)"

“That’s probably why they’re doing four teams [this year], because there’s only one source of ownership,” said Irwin. “But to get to the level of competition and excellence they’re looking to get to, you want to have multiple owners.”

Read the full article in Front Office Sports here. Access may require a subscription.