The Canberra Pirates take centre stage in a historic weekend for women’s hockey

Posted on 17 September, 2026

The highest-level women’s ice hockey team in the Canberra region is competing in the grand final this weekend – and it’s happening right here at home.

There’s no denying that ice hockey is having its moment in the cultural zeitgeist this year, with popular TV shows Heated Rivalry and Off Campus seeing a sudden surge in fans attending games around the globe. But while many people know about the male players (it’s no secret that the Canberra Brave have seen a significant jump in female attendance this year), the Canberra Pirates Women’s Ice Hockey team are skating into the spotlight with their own historic Grand Final run.

Canberra Pirates Captain Steph Boxall has been playing hockey since 1982 and has been part of the team for five seasons. She says that while there have been times in women’s hockey when she walked into a rink to find only a handful of people watching, the Semi-Final saw roughly a 400 per cent increase in attendance.

“To now skate out and see full stands, hear people cheering and know that young girls are watching us is really special. You realise that you’re not just playing for yourself anymore,” says Steph.

“You’re part of something bigger, and you’re helping show the next generation that there is a place for women in ice hockey. That support from the stands genuinely gives you another level of energy.”

In fact, visiting coaches and players noted that the Semi-Final was the largest crowd they had ever seen for a women’s hockey game.

Winning the game against Liverpool 3-0 – securing a spot in the Grand Final – for Steph and the Pirates team, the game this weekend represents a major turning point for the club.

“There are incredibly talented women coming through local club hockey, but having a pathway to higher-level competition is essential if you want those players to continue developing,” she explains.

“The Pirates provide an environment where players can test themselves against strong competition, train with experienced players and coaches, and learn what it takes to perform at a higher level. It’s also about creating opportunities.”

“That pathway is really important for the future of women’s hockey in Australia.”

Playing against the Arctic Foxes, the Pirates have the advantage of a home Grand Final. With doors opening at 3 pm, the puck will drop at 4 pm, with a bar and BBQ out the front of the Phillip Swimming and Ice-Skating Centre providing much-needed sustenance to fans. The hope is for the team to end the season the way they’ve been playing – finishing on top with scores like 11-0, 8-0 and 3-0.

“We know we’ve earned our place in the Grand Final, and a home final too, but now everyone starts from zero,” says Steph.

“We need to trust our preparation, stick to our game plan, and play for each other. There’s definitely nervous energy in the locker room, but I think that’s part of what makes playing in a Grand Final so special.”

But no matter who comes out on top when the buzzer sounds, Steph hopes that the Pirates team continues to grow, both on and off the ice.

“Obviously, we want to keep competing for championships, but success is bigger than just winning games. I’d like to see the club continue developing players, creating opportunities for young women and becoming an even stronger pathway into elite hockey,” she says.

“Women’s hockey is in an exciting place right now, and I think we’re only just beginning to see what it can become. Hopefully we can continue to build on that momentum and create a pathway where the next generation of Australian women don’t just can play hockey but can genuinely dream of playing at the highest level.”

Also taking place on Talk Like a Pirate Day, it’s a fitting way for the Pirates to end the ice hockey season. And as the team gears up for their biggest battle yet, Steph says that community support can go a long way.

“The visibility of women’s sport generally has increased enormously, and people are recognising that women’s hockey is fast, physical, competitive and incredibly entertaining to watch,” she says.

“The biggest thing is simply to keep showing up. Come to games, bring your families and friends, support the players and create an atmosphere. Follow the teams, share their results and talk about women’s hockey. The more people who come through the gates, the more sustainable the women’s game becomes.”

Images supplied.