Montreal Victoire

The Montreal Victoire entered the professional landscape on August 29, 2023, as one of six charter franchises launching the inaugural season of the Professional Women's Hockey League in 2024. This organization marked a pivotal moment for women's sports in Quebec by bringing elite talent to the Greater Montreal area following the dissolution of the Premier Hockey Federation. The team plays its home games at Place Bell in Laval, a modern arena that has quickly become a central hub for passionate crowds supporting local female athletes.

Head Coach Kori Cheverie guided the franchise from its inception through its first championship run. A former Canadian national team player, she established the team's competitive culture and development systems immediately. Her leadership helped build a roster capable of challenging for the league's highest honor, culminating in a dramatic playoff series against the New York Sirens.

In the 2025–26 season, the Victoire secured the PWHL Walter Cup after defeating the two-time reigning champions in a five-game series with a final score of 3–2. This victory claimed the franchise's first championship title. Notable players like forward Michelle Karvinen and defender Kati Tabin contributed to this success. The team also engaged deeply with the French-speaking community through events like youth camps in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, where Cheverie discussed the players' journeys. [edit]

Founded as a charter member of the PWHL, the Montreal Victoire began operations with the goal of unifying top North American players under a single banner. The team quickly integrated into the league structure, competing in the inaugural 2024 season alongside five other franchises. Their early years focused on building a strong identity within the French-speaking community of Quebec while maintaining high standards of play.

The franchise reached its peak during the 2025–26 season when they captured the PWHL Walter Cup. They overcame the New York Sirens in a tight five-game series to claim their first championship. This achievement solidified their status as a premier team in the league despite facing unusual circumstances later that year.

A significant event occurred in August 2026 when the replica version of the Walter Cup trophy went missing while in transit to Alberta. The loss sparked widespread attention after reports confirmed the trophy failed to arrive for a scheduled celebration event intended for forward Dara Greig and the Lethbridge community. While the official cup remained safe with the league, the disappearance of the replica became a notable chapter in the team's short history. [edit]