US Women’s Hockey to Face Canada in Olympic Tuneup
The Rivalry Series between the American and Canadian women’s hockey teams kicks off Thursday at 7 p.m., with a follow-up game on Saturday. Both teams are strong contenders for gold at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan.
Intense Competition Ahead
After three days of practice at a suburban Cleveland rink, the teams prepared for the Rivalry Series starting Thursday at Rocket Arena downtown (7 p.m., NHL Network). Despite a respectful friendship fostered through the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), rivalry dominates when they wear their national jerseys.
“Any time we put on our country’s jerseys, we don’t like each other,” said Team USA defender Megan Keller. “It’s going to be a bloodbath, especially these Rivalry Series games. You know, it’s not Olympic gold medal time right now, but it’s kind of how it feels when you’re out there.”
Series Schedule and Broadcast
- Thursday at 7 p.m. — Rocket Arena, Cleveland
- Saturday at 6 p.m. — Buffalo
- Two games in December — Edmonton
All games will be broadcast on NHL Network.
Significance for the Winter Olympics
The four-game Rivalry Series helps finalize rosters for the Winter Games, with teams to be announced between late December and early January. The Olympic opening ceremony is in February.
Historic Rivalry Overview
This meeting marks the 193rd encounter since their first clash at the 1990 IIHF Women’s World Championships. Canada leads historically with 108 wins, while the United States has 83.
Author’s Summary
The upcoming Rivalry Series between the US and Canada in women’s hockey showcases intense competition and will shape the final teams for the Winter Olympics, continuing one of sport’s greatest rivalries.