Walter Cup Champion Becomes First Player to Join Expansion Team
VANCOUVER, BC – PWHL Vancouver has officially signed Claire Thompson to a one-year contract, securing the standout defender for the team’s inaugural season. Thompson, a finalist for the 2025 Defender of the Year award and 2025 Walter Cup champion with the Minnesota Frost, becomes the first-ever signing for Vancouver.
A Defensive Anchor for Vancouver’s Future
Vancouver General Manager Cara Gardner Morey praised Thompson’s leadership and skill, stating:
“Claire is one of the best defenders in the world and a phenomenal leader who will help create a culture of excellence in Vancouver. Having had the privilege of coaching Claire at Princeton, I know how exceptional she is as a player and as a person, and I couldn’t be prouder to build our foundation with her contributions both on and off the ice.”
Thompson’s Impactful Career
Thompson has established herself as one of the league’s premier defensemen, earning recognition for her play at both the professional and international levels. Her standout accomplishments include:
- Finishing third in scoring among PWHL defenders with 18 points (4G, 14A) in 30 games.
- Delivering a record-tying four-point performance (1G, 3A) on December 19, 2024, in just her fourth career game.
- Recording six assists in eight playoff games, ranking fourth in postseason scoring and playing a vital role in Minnesota’s championship run.
Originally selected third overall in the 2024 PWHL Draft, Thompson made an immediate impact in her return to professional hockey after spending a year focusing on her medical studies.
International & Collegiate Success
Thompson is no stranger to high-pressure competition, representing Team Canada at multiple international events:
- 2022 Olympic Gold Medalist.
- Three-time IIHF Women’s World Championship medalist (Gold in 2021, Silver in 2023 and 2025).
- Former standout at Princeton University, where she played her NCAA career.
Thrilled to Represent Vancouver
Thompson expressed her excitement for joining Vancouver, stating:
“I’m incredibly excited to join PWHL Vancouver and be a part of this new chapter of women’s ice hockey. The opportunity to help build something special from the ground up is truly meaningful. I can’t wait to connect with the fans and represent this city!”
Next Steps – 2025 PWHL Expansion Draft
Expansion teams have until Sunday, June 8 at 5 p.m. ET to sign up to five players before the 2025 PWHL Expansion Draft, presented by Upper Deck, takes place on Monday, June 9 at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Fans can watch the live draft via thepwhl.com and the league’s YouTube channel, where Seattle and Vancouver will each select a minimum of seven players until they reach a 12-player roster minimum.
