The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) debuted the names and logos of four new teams Nov. 10. Detroit, San Jose, Las Vegas, and Hamilton, Ontario all gained teams for the 2026-27 season.
The Detroit Clutch
The Detroit Clutch’s brand was inspired by the city’s automotive innovation and a team that embraces the pursuit of progress, according to the Clutch.
The logo references a wheel and clutch and features an Art Deco-inspired font. The color palette of black, chrome, white and “racing red” are said to reflect the performance and grit of the city.
Amy Scheer, PWHL executive vice president of business operations, told the Clutch the league was inspired to create an identity that represented Detroit’s deep-rooted automotive legacy and hockey culture.
“It was fan determination that brought a PWHL team to Detroit,” Scheer said. “We worked to capture that spirit with the [Clutch], an identity that has been a long time coming for Hockeytown.”
The Clutch debuts during PWHL Opening Weekend against the new Vegas Vanguards Dec. 6. Their home opener is scheduled for Dec. 12 against the New York Sirens.
The San Jose Sea Lions
The San Jose Sea Lions’ brand was inspired by the region’s nature and community, and parallels their brother team, the San Jose Sharks.
Sea Lions’ Director of Business Operations Chris Jensen told the PWHL the coast and waterways played a major role in the identity of both the city and team, according to the Sea Lions.
“Our brand identity finds a wonderful balance between the unique feel of the community while also bringing an intense power to our team,” Jensen said. “Building an expansion team is a tall order and achieving success requires strength in the collective.”
The logo features a sea lion, deemed “The Guardian,” that symbolizes strength and protection. The bold font is rooted in the city’s ambitious character, and the colors — coastal blue, sunset orange, navy and sea mist — are indicative of the wildlife and horizon of San Jose.
Scheer told the PWHL that Northern California has built a passionate hockey community and is helping champion women’s sports.
“Fueled by that pride and the bold, energetic characteristics of the sea lion, this team will embody that same spirit on and off the ice,” Scheer said.
The Sea Lions host the Minnesota Frost for their first home game during PWHL Opening Weekend Dec. 5.
The Vegas Vanguards
The Vegas Vanguards’ brand was inspired by the risk-taking and adaptable city, according to the PWHL.
Sheri Hudspeth, director of business operations for the Vanguards, told the PWHL the identity represents a new chapter for the city.
“I hope the girls and women in our community see themselves reflected in the athletes wearing Vegas’ jersey — as competitors, leaders, and a reminder of what’s possible,” Hudspeth said.
The logo features the kit fox, native to the Mojave Desert, in the silhouette of a V as its foundation. The strong font is said to reflect the area’s spirit and the visual tradition of the frontier. The colors of cactus green, desert gold, ivory and navy cement an identity for the city to rally around.
Hudspeth said seeing the team come to life with the fans and players makes it all feel very real.
“For me, the most exciting part is imagining a young girl wearing our jersey and knowing there’s a place for her in this sport,” Hudspeth said.
The Vanguards host their home opener during PWHL Opening Weekend against the Detroit Clutch Dec. 6.
The Hamilton Havoc
The Hamilton Havoc’s brand focuses on the natural landscape and steel mills that collide in the city, according to the PWHL.
The logo features a peregrine falcon, which is Hamilton’s official bird known for its speed and power. The art incorporates steel wings and eyes to tie in the focus and intensity of the city’s labor side.
Hamilton Havoc General Manager Meghan Duggan told the PWHL the falcon represents the resilience the team wants to define their game.
“The species came back from the brink, and today it thrives right here in Hamilton,” Duggan said. “That connection to the city, and to the idea of rising and persevering, is something our players will carry with them every time they step on the ice.”
The colors of the logo are “rusted metal,” the yellow of molten steel, ivory and flame orange, which pay tribute to the industrial history of the city. The font features steel-forged lettering, which demonstrates the strength and durability of the city and team.
The Havoc debuts during PWHL Opening Weekend against the Montreal Victoire Dec. 5. Their inaugural home game is against the Ottawa Charge Dec. 13.
