Winnipeg, MB - PLAY Hockey is proud to announce the appointment of Mandy Cronin as the company’s new Vice President, Female Hockey. A veteran leader and pioneer in the professionalization of the women’s game, Cronin will lead the strategic growth, player development initiatives, and expansion of PLAY Hockey’s female-specific programming across North America.

Cronin joins PLAY Hockey with a decorated resume, including playing four seasons for the University of Maine Black Bears women's ice hockey program from 1998 to 2002, followed by 10 years in the professional leagues - the former National Women's Hockey League (NWHL) and the Canadian Women's Hockey League (CWHL, which she also co-founded) - from 2002-2012. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Cronin was selected to participate in multiple USA Hockey National Team Camps as a goaltender, and later as a coach at both USA Hockey and International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) camps and development programs. After hanging up the skates, she moved into the front office and served as the General Manager of the Buffalo Beauts and the Toronto Six (inaugural season), both members of the NWHL. Her deep-rooted expertise in goaltending, scouting, and sports management makes her uniquely qualified to elevate PLAY Hockey’s mission of providing world-class experiences for youth athletes.

Leadership Perspectives

Rhys Van Kemenade, Chief Hockey Officer at PLAY Hockey, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition to the executive team:

“Mandy is a trailblazer of the sport whose influence has helped reshape the landscape of women’s hockey at every level. Bringing her on board is a clear signal of our commitment to the female game. Her experience as a builder and a leader is exactly what we need to accelerate our growth and continue providing elite, transformative experiences for young female athletes across North America.”

Mandy Cronin shared her vision for her new role at the helm of female hockey operations:

“I am incredibly excited to join the PLAY Hockey team. My career has been dedicated to creating opportunities and pathways for female athletes to thrive, and this role allows me to impact the game at a foundational level. I look forward to building on PLAY Hockey’s success and creating even more opportunities for girls to fall in love with the sport.”

Building the Future of the Game

In her new role, Cronin will oversee all aspects of the female hockey division, focusing on:

• Program Expansion: Increasing the reach of tournaments and developmental camps.
• Player Pathway Enhancement: Strengthening the bridge between youth hockey and collegiate/professional opportunities.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with stakeholders to advocate for and grow the female game globally.

About PLAY Hockey

PLAY Hockey is a global leader in youth hockey events, teams, tours and development programs. Headquartered in Winnipeg, MB with regional operations across North America and Europe, the company is growing the game for male and female players of all skill levels at over 120 annual events in seven countries. PLAY Hockey is focused on providing best-in-class experiences for players, families, and community partners. The organization provides opportunities for young players to build friendships, have fun, and create family memories that last a lifetime. Learn more at www.playhockey.com or follow us on all social media platforms at @playhockeyna.

For press inquiries about PLAY Hockey please contact Drew Wilkinson, VP, Marketing and Partnerships – awilkinson@playhockey.com