Ottawa's Larocque Ready to Bring PWHL Hockey Back to Manitoba
Ottawa PWHL goaltender Emerance Larocque is embracing a homecoming of sorts as the Professional Women's Hockey League prepares for its much-anticipated 'Takeover' event in Manitoba, and she's making no secret of her excitement.
Larocque, who hails from Manitoba, expressed enthusiasm for the league's grassroots initiative that takes professional women's hockey directly to communities across Canada that don't yet have a home team. The PWHL Takeover events are designed to grow the game at the grassroots level, giving fans in smaller markets a rare chance to see the world's best women's hockey players up close.
What Is a PWHL Takeover?
The PWHL Takeover concept is one of the league's signature outreach programs. Rather than staying confined to the six home markets, Ottawa, Boston, Minnesota, Montréal, New York, and Toronto, the league brings its teams and players into new cities for community events, on-ice sessions, and fan engagement activities.
For Manitoba, a province with a deep and storied hockey culture, the Takeover represents a major moment. The province has produced some of the sport's most decorated players, and giving local fans, especially young girls dreaming of playing at the top level, a chance to see professionals in action is exactly the kind of investment the PWHL was built to make.
Ottawa's Connection to the Story
For Ottawa fans, Larocque has been a key figure in goal since the franchise's inception. Her passion for growing women's hockey resonates strongly in the capital, a city that has embraced PWHL Ottawa with sellout crowds and some of the loudest arenas in the league.
Ottawa residents who have cheered Larocque through big saves and playoff moments will appreciate seeing her carry that same energy back to where her hockey journey began. It's a full-circle moment, and a reminder of why community outreach matters so much to this league.
Why It Matters for Women's Hockey
The PWHL is still in its early seasons, but its Takeover events have already become something fans look forward to across the country. They signal that the league isn't just building franchises. It's building a culture.
For young players in Manitoba watching Larocque take the ice, the message is clear: a path to the top exists, and it runs straight through hard work and heart. That kind of inspiration is priceless.
Ottawa PWHL fans keeping an eye on Larocque this season should watch for updates on the Manitoba Takeover as more details are confirmed by the league.
Source: The Carillon
