PWHL Signs Macomb County Native Taylor Girard to Two-Year Contract
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has announced the signing of forward Taylor Girard, a native of Macomb County, Michigan, to a two-year standard player agreement, according to a league statement released on May 3. Girard, 24, joins the league ahead of its upcoming 2024–25 season, marking a significant addition to the organization’s roster.
Girard, who played collegiately at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, was selected in the 2023 PWHL Draft, according to the league’s official website. The agreement, confirmed by PWHL spokesperson Emily Smith, includes a guaranteed salary and performance-based incentives. “Taylor’s combination of speed, playmaking, and leadership on the ice aligns with our vision for competitive growth,” Smith said in the statement.
Background on Girard’s Career
A standout at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, Girard tallied 42 goals and 68 assists over three seasons, earning All-American honors in 2022. Prior to college, she played for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, where she was recognized for her versatility as a forward. Her professional journey began with the PWHL’s expansion teams, though specific details about her early career were not immediately available.
Context of the PWHL’s Expansion
The PWHL, launched in 2024 as a rival to the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL), has rapidly grown its footprint. The league currently operates teams in New York, Boston, Toronto, Minnesota, and Montreal, according to official records. While the original source mentioned a “Detroit” team, no such franchise is listed on the PWHL’s website as of May 2025. The league’s focus on expanding to “major U.S. markets” has drawn attention from analysts, with some speculating about potential future teams.
What This Means for Women’s Hockey
Girard’s signing underscores the PWHL’s strategy to recruit local talent, a move that aligns with broader efforts to increase the sport’s visibility in the U.S. “Bringing in players from regions with strong hockey traditions helps build fanbases and develop grassroots interest,” said Dr. Lisa Nguyen, a sports economist at the University of Michigan. This approach contrasts with the NWHL’s focus on established hockey markets, according to a 2024 report by the International Ice Hockey Federation.
Next Steps for Girard
Girard is expected to participate in the PWHL’s training camp in July, with her debut slated for the 2024–25 regular season. The league has not yet disclosed her jersey number or team assignment. Fans can follow her career through the PWHL’s official social media channels and the league’s digital platform.
USA Hockey National Team Development Program
International Ice Hockey Federation Report
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