Packing 17,000 Fans Into MSG Shows Promise of Women's Pro Hockey
In just its third season, the PWHL is playing in sold out arenas as top stars earn $100,000 salaries.
On April 4, the New York Sirens, who usually play home games at the Prudential Center in New Jersey, will host the Seattle Torrent in front of more than 17,000 fans at MSG.
Photographer: Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire/Getty ImagesElle Hartje grew up watching her dad play pro hockey, but even as she became a standout in the sport she doubted ever following in his footsteps and making a living on the ice.
On Saturday, the 24-year-old forward will suit up as a pro for a sold-out game at Madison Square Garden in front of more than 17,000 fans when her New York Sirens take on the Seattle Torrent. The matchup and the buzz it’s generating shows how far the Professional Women’s Hockey League has come a little more than three years after being co-founded by billionaire Mark Walter and wife Kimbra.