Pittsburgh Review

Jean Lombardi, a member of the original Pittsburgh Pennies women's hockey team, recalled past challenges for female players in the sport. "We didn't have anyone to play but boys' teams," she said. The original Pennies had to travel to Canada for tournaments due to limited opportunities locally.

On Monday, a group of 50 girls aged 10-12 participated in a skills clinic at PPG Paints Arena as part of the newly reestablished Pittsburgh Pennies Girls Hockey Program. This initiative aims to develop girls' hockey in Western Pennsylvania and is backed by nearly $300,000 from the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund and the Penguins Foundation.

The program was announced on Sunday with a focus on promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and gender equality in hockey. Matt Herr, NHL senior director of community development and industry growth, emphasized the significance of this initiative: "The goal of this program is the growth of hockey."

Former Pennies members Kathleen Berg, Patti Gaab, Stephanie St. Leger, Barbara DeShong Greil, and their former coach Jim Hughes were present at the clinic. They witnessed firsthand how much girls' hockey has evolved since their time.

"It's amazing to see this many girls out here on the ice," Gaab remarked about current participation levels. In contrast to earlier times when players often wore figure skates due to limited options for girls, today's participants are proficient skaters.

Girls' hockey participation in Western Pennsylvania has grown significantly over recent years. According to USA Hockey data, numbers increased from 804 players in 2008-09 to 1,450 in 2023-24.

The new program seeks not only player development but also fostering an environment where young female athletes can enjoy and remain engaged with the sport. Herr highlighted this aspect: "I think it's special because the girls have a different need than the boys... It's about having fun."