Canada’s women’s hockey team changes Olympic prep, training in three cities instead of Calgary centralization, as PWHL reshapes the path to gold.
Training Strategy Overhauled
Canada’s women’s hockey team is making a significant shift in its preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Instead of centralizing for months in Calgary, as has been the tradition, the team will train in blocks spread across Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal to better align with the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) schedule.
Why the Change Matters
Hockey Canada says the move reflects the evolution of the women’s game. With the PWHL now providing players with 30-plus games, professional training environments, and international competition, daily centralization is no longer the only path to high-level readiness. Officials believe this approach keeps players sharp while reducing disruption to their professional league commitments.
When Preparations Begin
The first of three training blocks begins immediately following this week’s Olympic orientation camp in Calgary, where 30 women were invited. From late August through to February, the players will regroup periodically around their PWHL calendars, ensuring a balance between national preparation and league play.
Where the Focus Lies
Key camps will be staged in Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal — all hubs of Canadian women’s hockey. The program is designed to simulate game-like conditions while allowing athletes to maintain their competitive edge in the PWHL. Players will also compete in the annual Rivalry Series against the United States, beginning November 6 in Cleveland.
Voices From the Ice
Captain Marie-Philip Poulin, who plays for Montreal in the PWHL, embraced the change. “It’s a great shift for us. Competing against each other in the league, then coming together for Canada, pushes us to be better,” she said. Forward Sarah Fillier added that the PWHL is “elevating the game” by giving national team hopefuls consistent exposure to top-tier competition.
How It Impacts the Road to Milan
Canada opens its Olympic title defence on February 5, 2026, against Finland in Milan, Italy. With 160 days until the puck drops, Hockey Canada estimates the women will spend about 50 of those days together in training. Officials argue this commitment is unmatched globally, setting the team up for a strong run at a sixth Olympic gold since 1998.
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