PWHL Takeover Tour Finale Brings Hometown Atmosphere to Maschmeyer
While winning an Olympic gold medal stands as an unparalleled achievement, Vancouver Goldeneyes goaltender Emerance Maschmeyer speaks with equal passion about the silver medal earned by Team Canada at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games. This sentiment extends beyond typical patriotic pride, rooted in a deeper appreciation for the fan experience that was missing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Silent Stands to Roaring Crowds
Four years prior, Maschmeyer and her teammates celebrated their gold medal victory in virtually empty arenas, a stark contrast to the vibrant atmosphere of recent competitions. For Maschmeyer, the opportunity to perform in front of supporters, especially friends and family, holds immense significance. This connection was palpable during the Professional Women's Hockey League's Takeover Tour finale, where the Vancouver Goldeneyes faced the Boston Fleet at Rogers Place in Edmonton.
The match drew an announced crowd of 10,794 spectators, though it ended in a 5-1 loss for Maschmeyer's team. Beyond the score, the event served a dual purpose: showcasing the PWHL to communities outside its eight current markets and evaluating potential expansion locations. The league plans to add up to four new teams as early as next season, with Edmonton emerging as a strong contender.
Edmonton Roots and Expansion Prospects
Although not her exact hometown, Maschmeyer's upbringing on a farm near Bruderheim, just an hour from Edmonton, forged her identity as an Edmontonian. She grew up playing hockey with her brothers, cheering for the Edmonton Oilers, and aspiring to NHL stardom. Her path mirrored that of fellow Canadian Olympic goaltender Shannon Szabados, including junior hockey stints "with the boys" in Fort Saskatchewan.
The PWHL's serious interest in Edmonton is evident, as Rogers Place hosted its third Takeover Tour game in two seasons. Maschmeyer participated in all three, beginning with the Ottawa Charge in February 2025 and continuing with the Goldeneyes this season, including a December matchup. She also represented Team Canada in Edmonton during the 2025-26 Rivalry Series.
"I've been fortunate, this is my third Takeover game here the last two seasons," Maschmeyer remarked. "Last year, when we had that first Takeover game, I thought this was a one-and-done. Like, what a dream. And here I am, back for the fifth time. So, it's very special anytime I get to play in front of my family and friends, and to grow the game in my community where my grassroots are is incredible."
Expansion Expectations and Community Impact
Edmonton presents a natural fit for PWHL expansion, given its rich hockey culture. The city boasts the world's largest minor hockey tournament, storied university programs like the University of Alberta Golden Bears and Pandas, and a legacy of NHL greatness from Wayne Gretzky to Connor McDavid. The Takeover Tour's repeated visits underscore the league's commitment to tapping into this passionate fan base, offering players like Maschmeyer a taste of hometown support while paving the way for professional women's hockey's growth in the region.
