ST. PAUL, Minn. — Taylor Heise and her teammates from the Minnesota Frost enjoyed a summer filled with celebrations after clinching the inaugural championship of the Professional Women’s Hockey League, proudly showcasing the Walter Cup at various events.
“If anyone missed seeing the cup, it’s because they simply weren’t around,” Heise remarked.
One notable appearance was at the Minnesota State Fair, where the gleaming trophy was photographed and even used creatively during a playful outing that included margaritas served throughout a four-hour tour on a sunny August day.
“I ended up with scrapes all over my arms,” Heise chuckled, adding with a grin, “That was my offseason workout!”
Meanwhile, goalie Nicole Hensley transported the cup back to her home state of Colorado, making time to visit her favorite concert venue, the iconic Red Rocks amphitheater. The logistics of ensuring the trophy was shared among players were carefully managed through UPS, allowing each player a chance to share in the experience.
“It was pretty exhilarating,” Hensley shared. “It was like door-to-door service for the trophy.”
As the PHWL gears up for its second season beginning November 30, the team faces a new chapter filled with fresh branding, including updated logos and nicknames, something that was largely overlooked during last year’s quick launch. Securing a championship typically increases competitive spirit, particularly in a six-team league where many players are already well acquainted from their collegiate and international experiences.
“We’ve got a target on our backs,” Heise noted, having led her team with five goals during the ten playoff games. “Everyone will be looking at us in a different light.”
Attention surrounding the team has intensified, especially after a week following their dramatic finals win against Boston when Minnesota’s general manager Natalie Darwitz, a significant figure in women’s hockey nationally and in the state, was replaced by the PHWL. Melissa Caruso stepped in as GM, while Ken Klee was kept on as head coach after taking over on short notice when Charlie Burggraf resigned shortly before the season started. Reports indicate that internal conflicts between Darwitz and Klee may have influenced team dynamics and impacted some players’ loyalties.
“My focus is on bringing our team back together,” Klee mentioned after practice on Thursday. “We’re looking ahead. Events in professional sports sometimes lead to unfortunate circumstances that are beyond our control. But we are excited to start this season.”
Neither PHWL officials nor the Frost organization have publicly addressed the situation surrounding the leadership change.
“Those were decisions made at the league level,” said Kendall Coyne Schofield, a forward for the Frost and the team’s second-highest scorer last season. “Our job here is to play hockey.”
It seems that any issues from the championship aftermath were either minimal or effectively managed leading up to the title.
“We had an incredible locker room dynamic, an awesome group, and a fantastic staff,” Klee reflected. “Without those elements, we wouldn’t have been successful.”
The PWHL operates as a centralized league that owns all six franchises, backed by the financial support of Mark Walter, owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, with plans for expansion in the 2025-26 season. The Frost are embracing their new identity, sporting jerseys in multiple shades of purple adorned with an “F” logo featuring icy points.
“Last year was centered around establishing our league, growing our fanbase, and creating memorable experiences for young girls,” Heise explained. “Now, our focus can shift to improving our game while still engaging with our fans. We aim to deliver a stronger performance every time we step on the ice.”