The PWHL Hamilton has made a significant addition to its roster by signing forward Emily Clark to a two-year contract. This move is part of the team's strategy to build a strong foundation for its inaugural 2026-27 season. Clark, a 30-year-old from Saskatoon, SK, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the team. She has been a key player for the Ottawa Charge, serving as an alternate captain and leading the team in scoring during the 2025 PWHL Walter Cup Playoffs.
What makes Clark's signing particularly intriguing is her international success. She has represented Canada at three Olympic Winter Games, winning a gold medal in 2022 and silver in 2018 and 2026. Her World Championship appearances further showcase her prowess on the global stage, with three gold, five silver, and one bronze medal to her name. However, what many people might not realize is that Clark's professional career began at the University of Wisconsin, where she helped the Badgers win a National Championship and served as an alternate captain.
The addition of Clark to PWHL Hamilton reunites her with former Charge captain Brianne Jenner, who was also signed to a three-year contract. This move is part of a larger strategy within the league's Expansion Player Distribution Process, which allows each expansion team to acquire five players through signings and, if necessary, a player selection process. The process is designed to build the foundation of each team's roster, with existing teams potentially losing a maximum of three players under contract for the 2026-27 season.
The PWHL Hamilton, one of 12 teams in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), was officially announced as a new expansion team on May 13. The team will debut at TD Coliseum in the fall, and fans can secure priority access to season tickets by placing a time-stamped deposit. The league, founded in 2023, features the best women's hockey players in the world and has already begun its inaugural season in January 2024.
In my opinion, the signing of Emily Clark is a strategic move by PWHL Hamilton. It not only strengthens the team's roster but also adds a player with a proven track record of success at the international level. Clark's experience and leadership will be invaluable as the team prepares for its first season, and her presence will undoubtedly raise the bar for the entire league.
