A new era in Saskatchewan hockey is taking shape this fall with the launch of the Saskatchewan Senior Women's Hockey League, the first of its kind in the province.
Estevan native Megan Leblanc is helping lead the charge as one of the organizers, and she says it's a long-overdue opportunity for women in the province to play at a senior level.
"It sucks when you know men have so many opportunities, which is great for senior hockey. And there's not one senior team or senior league that Sask Hockey has or anyone has out in Saskatchewan," said Leblanc.
The league will debut with ten teams total, five in the north and five in the south, including one based in Midale, where Leblanc will be lacing up for the Southeast Saints.
"We're starting the Saskatchewan Senior Women's Hockey League, so it'll be their first season starting in the fall. It's going to be awesome. I think it will grow for years to come."
The inaugural season is set to begin in October, with a 12-game schedule followed by playoffs. For Leblanc and her teammates, it’s about more than just hockey; it’s about paving the way for future generations.
“We’re just putting in all the hours behind the scenes and getting it up and rolling so that we can have a successful first season,” she said.
The league offers a promising step forward in women's sports in Saskatchewan, giving athletes another competitive outlet beyond youth and university levels.