Local Star Signs One-Year Contract with Expansion Team
VANCOUVER, BC – PWHL Vancouver has officially signed Jenn Gardiner to a one-year contract, securing the Surrey, BC, native for the franchise’s inaugural season. Gardiner, who spent her rookie campaign with the Montréal Victoire, becomes the fifth and final signing in Vancouver’s Exclusive Signing Window for expansion teams.
Building a Legacy in Vancouver
Vancouver General Manager Cara Gardner Morey highlighted the importance of bringing a local talent into the team:
“I think I speak for all of Vancouver and the entire province of British Columbia when I say it’s extremely special to add a local player like Jenn to our inaugural season lineup. She has experience building chemistry alongside some of the top players in the league and continues to rise in her career. I can’t wait to see her thrive in front of her hometown fans.”
Gardiner’s Rising Career
Gardiner was selected 11th overall by Montréal in the 2024 PWHL Draft and is currently a finalist for the 2025 PWHL Rookie of the Year award. She had a standout season, ranking:
- Second among all rookies in scoring with 18 points (5G, 13A) in 30 games.
- Third on the Victoire’s roster in total points.
- Second in tournament scoring at the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship, helping Canada secure a silver medal.
One of the highlights of her season was returning to Vancouver to play professionally in front of a sold-out crowd at Rogers Arena during the PWHL Takeover Tour on January 8.
Gardiner joined the PWHL after a decorated collegiate career at The Ohio State University, where she won two National Championships with the Buckeyes.
A Dream Come True
Gardiner expressed her excitement about returning home, stating:
“Simply put, it’s a dream come true. Ever since I was a little girl on the Surrey Falcons and Greater Vancouver Comets, I’ve wanted to play professional hockey for my hometown team. I am thrilled to help build a legacy that inspires other girls in British Columbia to dream big. The Takeover Tour proved Vancouver’s fans are passionate and loud, but I already knew that. I cannot wait to make them proud. Happy to say I’m coming home!”
Vancouver’s Expansion Roster Takes Shape
Gardiner joins an all-Canadian preliminary lineup of Vancouver signees, including:
- Sarah Nurse (forward)
- Sophie Jaques (defender)
- Claire Thompson (defender)
- Emerance Maschmeyer (goaltender)
With Gardiner’s signing, Vancouver has reached the league-mandated maximum of five expansion signings during the Exclusive Signing Window.
Next Steps – 2025 PWHL Expansion Draft
The 2025 PWHL Expansion Draft, presented by Upper Deck, is set for Monday, June 9 at 5:30 p.m. PT / 8:30 p.m. ET. Vancouver will select seven additional players to complete their 12-player roster, with fans able to watch live via thepwhl.com and the league’s YouTube channel.
