The newly established Vancouver team in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has secured the signing of Michelle Karvinen, a four-time Olympian. Karvinen, aged 35, was chosen by Vancouver in the first round of the PWHL entry draft held in June, where she was the seventh overall pick.
Prior to joining the Vancouver team, Karvinen has played hockey at the University of North Dakota and in various leagues such as Finland’s Auroraliiga, Switzerland’s SWHL, and Russia’s ZhHL. Originally from Rodovre, Denmark, Karvinen represents Finland internationally and has clinched three Olympic bronze medals with the national team.
Vancouver’s general manager, Cara Gardner Morey, expressed in a press release that Karvinen brings a track record of success and a wealth of experience to the team as a seasoned hockey player.
The PWHL Vancouver is set to commence its debut season on November 21, starting with a home game against PWHL Seattle, another expansion team.
The PWHL recently unveiled Vancouver as the league’s seventh franchise, with the team scheduled to begin competing in the 2025/2026 season at the historic Pacific Coliseum.
