Melissa Burgess @_MelissaBurgess -
NWHL Notebook: A Wild Alignment - August 14, 2018 -
NWHL Draft Expected Mid-Season -
The league also announced its plans for a draft, which will be held at some point during the season. In previous years, the draft was held over the summer via conference call/social media. Per a league representative, they expect to hold the draft "at some point during the 2018-2019 season."
"Since the end of last season, the league has been considering a different time in the year to have the Draft -- a time that would be better for the teams and players, and put an even bigger spotlight on the women's game," said the representative. "With so many exciting ongoing discussions about the future of women's professional hockey, the NWHL has decided to take some more time with its decision regarding the Draft. We will update you as soon as a decision is finalized," the league's statement read.
It is possible that this could mean an in-person draft rather than a virtual one, though nothing has been confirmed by the league.
Wild To Support Whitecaps -
The NHL's Minnesota Wild have announced that they will provide "far-ranging support" for the Whitecaps in their inaugural NWHL season. The support includes: hosting the Whitecaps' games and practices at TRIA Rink; support in marketing, promotions, communications, social & digital media and community relations; and pairing of the teams' regular season home openers on October 6.
The Whitecaps' home opener has been moved to 4:00 PM Central, still at TRIA Rink, in order to accommodate fans and give them the chance to attend both that and the Wild's home opener later that evening.
The Whitecaps will join the Wild at the Minnesota State Fair and participate in several youth hockey initiatives, including Girls' Hockey Weekend, the Faceoff for Fitness school assembly program, and the Little Wild Learn to Play Program.
This is the third time an NHL team has given support to an NWHL team. The Devils have a multi-year partnership with the Riveters, while Pegula Sports & Entertainment, owner of the Sabres, also own the Beauts.
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