It’s been one year since the PWHL announced that Vancouver will be getting its own Professional Women’s Hockey team, now known as the beloved Vancouver Goldeneyes.

As players wrap up their inaugural season, they reflect on what it’s been like to play in this city, and what’s next.

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“Vancouver has been amazing, our fans show up for us not only at the Coliseum, but really throughout the city,” said Sarah Nurse, forward for the Goldeneyes. “It’s incredible. Vancouver has the best fans, and I knew the support was going to be incredible right off the bat.”

It’s been an exciting journey for the Goldeneyes. From record breaking attendance at Roger’s Arena during the PWHL Takeover Tour last year to a packed Pacific Coliseum for the team’s inaugural home opener. 

“I’ll never forget that first goal, I’ve never felt energy like that,” said Nurse.

“Just looking back from our first game of the season and our most recent one, our fan support has been unbelievable. A special market to play in, and just super proud to wear that jersey,” said Hannah Miller, forward for the Goldeneyes.

Being an expansion team comes with growing pains, but while the Goldeneyes weren’t able to clinch a spot in the playoffs, they grew together as a team.

“This was a learning year for all of us, just with it being an expansion and a new group in a new city,” said Ashton Bell, Goldeneyes captain. “We definitely learned a lot, and I’m proud of the group of how we handled adversity throughout the yea and how we grew.”

Uncertainty is also on the horizon as they head into the next season with the PWHL announcing plans to further expand the league.

“It could be completely different next year or the exact same. We want to help build a franchise in Van. We’ll have to see.” The Goldeneyes will be taking on the Minnesota Frost on Saturday for their final game of the season.