There has been a lot of negativity surrounding hockey culture as of late and it’s hard to say that it hasn’t been mostly well-deserved. Every time we feel like we are making progress, we’re shocked by an allegation, a statement from a former player, or some revelation that makes us wonder if hockey is a sport that will ever outgrow its demons. Beyond the surface, though, while there is a long way to go for the sport, there’s actually been some progress that might have gone underappreciated.
Historically, women have often been made to feel lesser in hockey; whether it be a casual disregard for the knowledge and passion of female fans, or the disrespect shown towards prominent female figures in media and other positions in sports.