When the new Pacific Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) franchise in Vancouver faces expansion-cousin Seattle on November 21, the team’s name and logo will be prominently displayed at center ice inside Pacific Coliseum – marking a significant milestone for women’s hockey in the Pacific city.
The Vancouver Goldeneyes and Seattle Torrent were unveiled by the PWHL on Thursday, signaling the league’s expansion to eight teams from the original six. Training camps for players kick off on Friday in preparation for the upcoming season opener.
The branding process for the two new women’s pro hockey teams began earlier this year when Vancouver and Seattle were announced as expansion markets. Kanan Bhatt-Shah, the PWHL’s vice president of brand and marketing, emphasized the importance of authenticity and resonance in developing the team identities.
The Vancouver Goldeneyes derive their name from the fiercely protective common goldeneye bird, prevalent in the region and known for its distinct yellow eyes. The team’s logo incorporates elements of the bird, with primary colors of Pacific blue, coastal cream, and earthy bronze, complemented by hints of sunset gold and sky blue.
In contrast, Seattle’s branding highlights the city’s waterways, reminiscent of the NHL’s Seattle Kraken. The Seattle Torrent’s logo features a stylized ‘S’ symbolizing both Seattle and a rush of water, reflecting the region’s cultural and environmental aspects.
Gear for both teams is already available for purchase, with the new names and logos prominently featured. While the logos will not be on the jerseys initially, the city names will be displayed across the chest for the first season, maintaining consistency with the original six teams’ debut season.
The PWHL season kicks off on November 21, with the Toronto Sceptres facing off against the reigning champions, the Minnesota Frost, followed by the inaugural game between the Vancouver Goldeneyes and Seattle Torrent on the same night. Each team is set to play 30 games, with a break during the Olympics.