Fast Stays in Toronto as PWHL Grows
The PWHL is about to get a whole lot bigger — and Toronto Sceptres alternate captain Renata Fast is staying put for the ride.
Fast has re-signed with the Sceptres, locking in her future with one of the league's flagship franchises just as the landscape of women's professional hockey in Canada is shifting dramatically. The re-signing comes during a pivotal moment in the league's short but impactful history.
Four New Teams Are Coming
Next season, the PWHL will welcome four expansion franchises: Hamilton, Detroit, Las Vegas, and San Jose. It's a massive step forward for a league that launched just two seasons ago and has already captured the attention of hockey fans across the country.
As part of the expansion process, existing PWHL teams were each permitted to protect three players from being selected by the incoming clubs. The protection rules have made re-signings like Fast's especially meaningful — teams are actively working to lock up their core players before the new franchises can come knocking.
Why Fast's Return Matters
Renata Fast is one of the most recognizable names in the PWHL. As an alternate captain, she's more than just a roster piece — she's part of the identity of the Toronto Sceptres program. Keeping her in the fold sends a clear message about where the franchise is headed.
The expansion era is creating real urgency league-wide. Teams that hesitate risk watching key pieces get scooped up by Hamilton or one of the new American markets. Toronto's move to secure Fast early reflects a front office that understands the stakes.
A Big Deal for Women's Hockey in Canada
The addition of a Hamilton franchise is particularly significant for Canadian fans. The Steeltown market has long been underserved in professional hockey, and a PWHL team there could tap into a passionate fanbase that's hungry for elite women's hockey close to home.
For Ottawa fans, the expansion is also worth watching closely. The PWHL Ottawa team — known simply as Ottawa — has built a strong local following since the league's debut season. As the league expands and competition for top talent intensifies, Ottawa's management will need to be equally aggressive in protecting and developing its roster.
The league's rapid growth from six to ten teams in just a couple of years is a testament to the demand for women's professional hockey and the momentum that's been building since the PWHPA era. Sponsors, broadcasters, and fans are all paying attention.
What's Next
With expansion signings ramping up and new franchises preparing for their debuts, this off-season is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in PWHL history. Expect more re-signing announcements from teams protecting their core players in the weeks ahead.
Renata Fast staying in Toronto is just the opening move in what promises to be a busy summer for the league.
Source: CBC Sports
