PWHL Takeover Tour A Homecoming For Serdachny And Markowski
Ottawa Charge defender Stephanie Markowski and forward Danielle Serdachny know that when they lace up their skates and step out onto the ice for that first pre-game skate at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta on Sunday afternoon, they'll be doing so in front of some of the most passionate and supportive women's hockey fans around.
"Everyone in Edmonton is hyped for the game. You can definitely feel the energy,' said Markowski. 'Edmonton is a huge hockey city. They've always been supportive of women's hockey, so I'm sure the hype is elevated a bit this year with the Tour coming."
Serdachny added, "I think the exposure is important, especially out west. When that exposure, time and money is given, it's really important. Being able to showcase our personalities and a high intensity game is so important!"
The previous four stops of the Takeover Tour were undoubtedly successful, drawing total attendance numbers of 63,923, and this stop will be no different, as it's expected to be a raucous sellout crowd.
And that excitement is something that was not lost on Markowski, who recently made a trip back home and was surprised to see some of the league's marketing.
"Seeing myself in photos hung up at the West Edmonton Mall was really cool! It just shows how far the league has gone and how into it people are. I can't wait to play there!"
With the game heading to Alberta, this will also mark a homecoming of sorts for both Emerance Maschmeyer (Bruderheim, Alberta) along with head coach Carla MacLeod (Spruce Grove, Alberta).
Ottawa will face Toronto in Edmonton on February 16.
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