Claire Thompson Makes Historic Move to Lead PWHL Vancouver

Claire Thompson Makes Historic Move to Lead PWHL Vancouver

Claire Thompson Makes Historic Move to Lead PWHL Vancouver

It’s official—and it’s huge. Claire Thompson, one of the most elite defenders in professional women’s hockey today, has signed a one-year deal with PWHL Vancouver. This isn’t just any signing; it marks the very first player acquisition for Vancouver as the team gears up for its inaugural season in the Professional Women’s Hockey League. And what a way to start.

Claire Thompson isn’t just a big name—she’s a defining presence on the ice. A finalist for the 2025 PWHL Defender of the Year and fresh off a championship win with the Minnesota Frost, Thompson brings experience, poise, and proven leadership to a brand-new team looking to make its mark. Her impact on the Frost’s blue line was undeniable, with 18 points in the regular season, including four goals and 14 assists in 30 games. And when it came to the postseason? She stepped up even more—six assists in just eight games, playing a crucial role in Minnesota’s championship run.

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This move reunites her with Vancouver’s GM Cara Gardner Morey, who previously coached her at Princeton. Morey couldn’t have been clearer in her admiration: Thompson is not only one of the best defenders in the world but also a leader who will help build a culture of excellence from day one. Her presence sets the tone for what this expansion team is aiming to become—competitive, focused, and fearless.

Beyond the stats, Thompson’s story stands out because she returned to the league after a year away to pursue medical studies, then came back stronger than ever. She made headlines earlier this season when, in just her fourth game, she tied a league record with four points—one goal and three assists. That kind of comeback speaks volumes about her drive and discipline.

On the international stage, Thompson has already made her country proud—Olympic gold in 2022, world championship gold in 2021, and more medals in recent years. At just 27, she’s already built a legacy—and now, she’s building something new in Vancouver.

It’s an exciting time for women’s hockey, and for fans in Vancouver, the foundation is being laid with one of the game’s best. Claire Thompson isn’t just joining a team—she’s helping to lead a movement.

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