The IX Sports Podcast is excited to launch it’s first hockey episode! Host Maya Smith and analyst Alyssa Turner break down the massive early-season storylines across the PWHL, starting with Seattle’s historic home opener and the lingering question: should Torrent and Goldeneyes fans be worried after three games?
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Seattle’s debut was nothing short of electric. The first “Let’s go Torrent!” chant rang out a full 10 minutes before warmups, a release of years of anticipation from a community that has long insisted the city was ready for women’s pro hockey. When Climate Pledge Arena hit 16,014 fans at puck drop—an all-time U.S. indoor attendance record for a women’s hockey game—the moment felt inevitable. General manager Meghan Turner captured it best pregame: “I expect us to meet the moment … it’s the beginning of a really cool time that I know will last forever.”
And yet, the on-ice result didn’t match the atmosphere. Minnesota controlled the game 3–0, with early Frost pressure limiting Seattle’s transition game. Still, the Torrent faithful never sat back, rising for blocked shots and puck battles even after the outcome felt sealed. Captain Hilary Knight summed up the emotion: “We could feel the love … It was a dream come true.” That connection between team and city is real—but the Torrent still need to turn momentum into goals.
Meanwhile, Vancouver faces similar questions after a shaky first stretch, struggling to establish offensive rhythm and consistency. Maya and Alyssa dig into whether these issues are growing pains or warning signs. With elite talent on both rosters and plenty of runway ahead, neither team should panic—but both fanbases have reason to pay attention.
In this premiere episode, the crew also checks in on where every PWHL team stands after November and previews upcoming matchups. Expect interviews, big guests and nonstop women’s hockey talk every other week—this is just the beginning.
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The staff of The Ice Garden has paved the way for women’s hockey coverage from the college ranks to international competitions. Of course, that includes in-depth coverage of the PWHL too.
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