The Professional Women's Hockey League has filled the final front office positions for its four expansion teams, naming Meghan Duggan as general manager of the Hamilton franchise and Troy Ryan as general manager and head coach of the San Jose franchise.
The new teams in Hamilton, San Jose, Detroit, and Las Vegas will double the league's size to 12 clubs for the 2026-27 season.
Duggan Brings Olympic Pedigree to Hamilton
Duggan, a three-time U. S.
Olympian, joins the Hamilton franchise after five years in player development with the NHL's New Jersey Devils.
She won an Olympic gold medal, two silver medals, and seven world championship titles as a player for Team USA.
"This league represents the future of women's professional sports," Duggan said.
"And the opportunity to help build a team, culture, and identity from the ground up is a privilege."
She described Hamilton as a passionate sports city with a rich hockey tradition and said her goal is to create an environment where players can thrive and compete for a championship.
PWHL Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Jayna Hefford praised Duggan's leadership, calling her an effective leader at every stage of her career and a rising star in front office ranks.
Ryan Takes Dual Role in San Jose
Ryan becomes the first person in PWHL history to hold a dual general manager and head coach role.
He moves to San Jose after three seasons as head coach of the Toronto Sceptres and stepping down from the Canadian national women's team program.
"I'm honored and incredibly excited to help build this organization in San Jose," Ryan said.
He noted that expansion creates a rare opportunity to shape everything with intention, from standards and culture to community connection.
Ryan emphasized the goal of building a competitive team that elevates women's hockey in California.
"We want to build a team that plays with purpose, represents The Bay Area with pride, and helps to continue to grow women's hockey on the West Coast," he said.
Hefford described Ryan as a consummate professional and culture driver who has excelled in leadership roles in the PWHL and with Canada's national team.
She said his diverse experiences and competitive spirit make him a strong fit for the dual responsibilities.
The immediate duties for both executives involve building hockey operations staffs and preparing for the expansion player signing process and the PWHL Draft.
The signing process will begin in two weeks, followed by the 2026 PWHL Draft scheduled for June 17 in Detroit.
