History on Ice: Olympians and Elite Women’s Hockey Talent Coming to Wheeling for Unforgettable Weekend Showcase
United States, 1st Nov 2025 – The Ohio Valley is about to make sports history. For the first time ever, Wheeling, West Virginia will host a weekend of elite women’s ice hockey — a high-speed, hard-hitting, heart-pounding display of athleticism and determination that will leave fans on their feet. Former Olympians. NCAA Division I and III standouts. European professionals. National-champion club players. They’re all coming here — to Wheeling — for one unforgettable weekend celebrating the rise of women’s hockey in the heart of Appalachia.
Game Schedule — Tri-State Thunder Host Weekend
Saturday, November 15
12:30 PM — Cleveland Sturgeon vs. Columbus Capitals @ WesBanco Arena
4:10 PM — Tri-State Thunder vs. Columbus Capitals @ Wheeling Park Ice Rink
5:40 PM — Cleveland Sturgeon vs. Dayton Fangs @ Wheeling Park Ice Rink
Sunday, November 16
8:05 AM — Dayton Fangs vs. Columbus Capitals @ WesBanco Arena
9:35 AM — Tri-State Thunder vs. Cleveland Sturgeon @ WesBanco Arena
11:05 AM — Tri-State Thunder vs. Dayton Fangs @ WesBanco Arena
Admission is FREE — fans of all ages are invited to experience the speed, skill, and excitement of elite women’s hockey right here in Wheeling.
Teams Competing
This historic showcase features powerhouse teams from across the Midwest and Ohio Valley, all members of the Pennsylvania–Ohio Women’s Hockey Association (POWHA):
• Tri-State Thunder (WV/OH/PA) — Host team
• Cleveland Sturgeon (Cleveland, OH)
• Dayton Fangs (Dayton, OH)
• Columbus Capitals (Columbus, OH)
• (Additional POWHA teams — Indy Speed, Louisville Fighting Fillies, St. Louis Frenzy, and Cincinnati Rising Stars — will compete in upcoming league events.)
About the League
The Pennsylvania–Ohio Women’s Hockey Association (POWHA) has become one of the fastest-growing women’s hockey leagues in the nation. It provides a platform for adult female athletes to continue competing at a high level while inspiring the next generation of girls in the sport. From the first puck drop to the final horn, POWHA showcases are fast, physical, and full of passion — a testament to the skill and spirit of the women who play the game.
Tri-State Thunder: The Pride of the Valley
Representing West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, the Tri-State Thunder is the newest addition to POWHA — and they’re already making waves. After an undefeated debut in league play, the Thunder now bring the action home to Wheeling for the first time.
The team’s roster features a dynamic mix of athletes — from collegiate and international competitors to club scoring leaders and regional all-stars — united by one mission: to elevate women’s hockey in the Ohio Valley.
The new team was founded by three local women who participate in the Ohio Valley Women’s Hockey Association — a program launched in 2020 by Rachel Adams to grow youth and girls’ hockey in the region. Five years later, that vision has come to life: Wheeling is now a destination for elite-level women’s hockey.
A Milestone for Women’s Sports
“This is a moment Wheeling has never seen before,” said one event organizer. “To have Olympians and national-level athletes competing in our own rinks — it’s a sign that women’s hockey isn’t just growing here; it’s thriving.”
More than a showcase, this weekend is a celebration of progress, perseverance, and community. It’s about breaking barriers, inspiring the next generation, and proving that the Ohio Valley belongs on the map for women’s sports excellence. Local youth players will have the chance to meet the athletes, see the action, and dream bigger — because this weekend, the future of hockey is right here at home.
Join the Celebration
Come be part of history.
Come support the athletes.
Come see what world-class women’s hockey looks like — right here in Wheeling.
Admission: Free
Venues: Wheeling Park Ice Rink & WesBanco Arena
Dates: November 15–16, 2025
Media Contact
Tri-State Thunder Media Relations
Email: thunderwomenshockey@gmail.com
Phone: 740-359-5523
Follow updates: @TriStateThunder | @POWomensHA
Company Details
Organization: Tri-State Thunder
Contact Person: Tri-State Thunder Media Relations
Website: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AcopMob5A/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Release Id: 01112536435