New York Sirens Set Attendance Record in PWHL Game

On January 18, 2026, the New York Sirens defeated the Montreal Victoire 2-1 in a pivotal game at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. This match attracted an unprecedented crowd of 17,228 fans, marking the highest attendance for a professional women’s hockey game in the United States. The previous record of 16,014 was set during a game between the Seattle Torrent and Minnesota Frost on November 28, 2025.

PWHL sets U.S. women’s hockey attendance record in Washington, D.C.

Kristýna Kaltounková and Anne Cherkowski scored for the Sirens, while Kayle Osborne made 31 saves to secure the victory. The Sirens, now with a record of 7-0-1-5, have won five of their last six games, positioning themselves just four points behind the league-leading Boston team. Kaltounková, the first overall pick in the 2025 PWHL draft, leads the league with nine goals, tied with Minnesota's Kendall Coyne Schofield.

Sirens end Montreal’s win streak for victory in front of record crowd of 17,000 for women’s hockey

Montreal's Sarah Fillier contributed two assists, and goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens recorded 25 saves. The Sirens' victory also ended the Victoire's three-game winning streak.

Sirens end Montreal’s win streak for victory in front of record crowd of 17,000 for women’s hockey

Ted Leonsis, founder of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, expressed pride in the record turnout, attributing it to a commitment to women's sports. He stated, “These record-setting crowds are the result of deliberate investment, long-term partnership and a belief that women’s sports deserve to be celebrated at the highest level.” This event is part of the PWHL’s Takeover Tour, which features 16 neutral-site games across 11 cities in the U.S. and Canada.

PWHL sets U.S. women’s hockey attendance record in Washington, D.C.

The record attendance in Washington, a market currently without a PWHL team, could enhance the league's expansion efforts. PWHL Executive Vice President of Business Operations Amy Scheer indicated that the league plans to add between two and four teams for the next season, following recent expansions into Seattle and Vancouver.

PWHL sets U.S. women’s hockey attendance record in Washington, D.C.

Despite the celebration of the record attendance, some critics argue that the PWHL still faces challenges in sustaining fan engagement and support in markets without established teams. The long-term viability of such attendance figures remains a point of discussion among sports analysts and fans alike.

PWHL sets U.S. women’s hockey attendance record in Washington, D.C.

The New York Sirens will next host the Ottawa team, continuing their pursuit of success in the PWHL.

Sirens end Montreal’s win streak for victory in front of record crowd of 17,000 for women’s hockey