The First Fight in the PWHL: A New Chapter in Women’s Hockey
In a groundbreaking moment for women’s hockey, Jill Saulnier, a former energy line forward for the Canadian women’s national team, engaged in the first official fight in the history of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). This encounter occurred during a match on February 20, 2025, between the Boston Fleet and the Ottawa Charge, marking a notable milestone for the league and the sport itself.
The Context of the Fight
Saulnier, who previously secured two Olympic medals and a world championship with Canada, initiated the fight with Ottawa’s Tereza Vanišová after a series of physical exchanges during the game. Reflecting on the event, Saulnier described the moment, stating, “She got a hold of my stick and dropped it down, and that was just kind of the green flag for me …. I said, ‘Let’s go.’”
This fight quickly became a viral sensation, with significant media coverage, including mentions in international outlets like TMZ and the Daily Mail. The incident occurred at TD Place Arena in front of nearly 6,000 fans and was viewed as a demonstration of the intense competitive spirit that defines the league.
The Build-Up to the Altercation
The tension leading up to the fight was palpable, featuring additional physicality, such as hard checks and crosschecks from Saulnier against Vanišová. Following these exchanges, Vanišová’s response—throwing Saulnier’s stick to the ice—was perceived by Saulnier as a cue to escalate the confrontation. “In the moment, it was physical, and that fight had to happen,” she explained, adding that it sent a clear message from both teams about the game’s intensity.
Game Dynamics and Reactions
Prior to the fight, traditional hockey decorum around combat was notably different for women’s players. Unlike their male counterparts, women in hockey wear full protective cages, which changes the approach to fighting. As Saulnier stated, “You’d just look silly to fully drop the gloves,” suggesting that such actions would not be practical in the context of women’s hockey.
Following the fight, the game saw a shift in momentum, with Ottawa showcasing a strong response leading to a goal by Ronja Savolainen shortly thereafter, with Vanišová scoring the equalizer to push the game into overtime, resulting in an unofficial “Gordie Howe hat trick” for her—scoring a goal, assisting on another, and engaging in a fight, all within the same game.
Implications for the PWHL
The PWHL, officially launched in January 2024, views this event as a pivotal point in its nascent history. Coach Carla MacLeod remarked post-game on the excitement generated from the fight, suggesting it could be beneficial for the sport by drawing attention and enthusiasm from fans.
However, the league maintains a clear stance on fighting, emphasizing that it is not an accepted part of the game. The PWHL has since instituted stricter rules regarding fighting, now penalizing such actions with a five-minute major and potential further disciplines. Saulnier humorously noted this change as “the Jill Saulnier rule,” underscoring the importance of managing player conduct while still allowing for competitive spirit.
Looking Ahead
Despite the physical nature of the fight, Saulnier does not anticipate a surge in fighting incidents within the league. She noted that while increased physicality is present, the culture around women’s hockey typically discourages fights, especially given the lack of training in fighting skills within the women’s game.
As the PWHL continues to evolve, moments like this fight contribute to shaping its identity. Saulnier’s historic altercation is not just a fleeting incident; it represents a shift towards a more dynamic and competitive women’s hockey landscape. With heightened visibility, the league hopes to attract a broader audience while fostering a culture that retains the sport’s integrity.
The first legitimate fight in the #PWHL. @PWHL_Boston’s Jill Saulnier & @PWHL_Ottawa’s Tereza Vanišová square off. pic.twitter.com/L6fr5biVmv
— Melissa Burgess (@_MelissaBurgess) February 21, 2025
