Boston Fleet: Navigating Success in Women’s Professional Hockey

Launch of the Fleet

Founded on August 29, 2023, the Boston Fleet emerged as one of the PWHL’s charter franchises, bringing professional women’s hockey back to the Boston area after the Boston Pride’s departure. Based in Lowell, the Fleet calls the Tsongas Center home, where they’ve already started to make waves in the league. With colors like forest green, aqua, navy, and teal, they’re not only a team but a statement of style and resilience.

Under the guidance of General Manager Danielle Marmer and Head Coach Courtney Birchard-Kessel, the Fleet is navigated by some of the sport’s brightest stars. Captain Hilary Knight, a name synonymous with US women’s hockey excellence, leads the charge alongside key signings Aerin Frankel and Megan Keller, all of whom inked three-year deals to steer the team towards victory.

The 2024 season was a thrilling ride for the Fleet. They kicked off with an electrifying debut against Minnesota Frost on January 3, with Theresa Schafzahl etching her name in history by scoring the team’s first-ever goal. Their first taste of victory came dramatically in overtime against Montreal Victoire, setting the tone for a season filled with nail-biting moments.

Boston wrapped up the regular season in third place, securing a spot in the playoffs. They advanced through the first round by defeating Montreal in three straight overtime victories, showcasing their tenacity and skill. Although they fell short in the Walter Cup Finals against Minnesota, their performance was nothing short of spectacular, with goaltender Aerin Frankel leading in saves.

Charting New Waters: The Fleet's Identity

Initially, the team went by PWHL Boston with a generic jersey template, but fans and the city demanded something more distinctive. After a brief and unpopular flirtation with the name “Boston Wicked,” the team embraced “Fleet” in September 2024, celebrating Boston’s maritime heritage. Their logo, a stylish ‘B’ that doubles as an anchor, symbolizes the team’s grounding in the city’s history and their forward momentum.

Season by Season: The Fleet's Record

2023-2024:

Games Played: 24

Wins: 8 (Regular), 4 (Overtime)

Losses: 9 (Regular), 3 (Overtime)

Points: 35

Goals For/Against: 50/57

Playoff Result: Lost Walter Cup Finals to PWHL Minnesota, 2-3

Future Horizons for the Fleet

The Boston Fleet is setting their sights on future victories. With a robust roster and a community that’s as passionate about hockey as the sea itself, the Fleet is poised to be a dominant force in the PWHL. Keep your eyes peeled for more epic games at the Tsongas Center, where every match is not just a game but a celebration of Boston’s hockey heritage.

Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or a newcomer to the sport, the Boston Fleet offers an engaging, exciting experience. So, grab your foam finger, don your green and teal, and join the legion of supporters cheering on this remarkable team.