The NWHL saw hundreds of players sit out this past year due to concerns the women’s hockey league was not providing enough resources. A new report from Victory Press reveals several players who say their basic needs as workers were not being met during the 2018-19 season.
In the report, two former players from the league’s Boston franchise say they had no access to bathrooms, locker rooms or private places to change when practicing. Concerns raised from other players include unsafe traveling during inclement weather, players having to pay for their own travel and parking, and inconsistent access to health care.
This statement from the NWHL was given to Victory Press:
"This is part of a continuous smear campaign by the PWHPA, which for more than a year has tried to eliminate the NWHL because they have told players that if our league folds, others would start a league for them. In a wide array of forums, including in direct discussions with PWHPA leadership, we have regularly discussed and responded to these allegations.
Although our work continues, we are proud of the progress of a league started just five years ago. We are proud of the ongoing positive experiences of our players, the daily signing of high-level and accomplished new and returning players, expansion to Minnesota and Toronto, the significant investment in player salaries and player development, and the major business strides the NWHL made last season as everyone worked constructively and collaboratively. These steps forward serve as our statements in response to this destructive and false narrative."
