Molson, PWHL aim to increase player recognition through ‘See My Name’ campaign

For many who’ve watched women’s hockey for years or who might be new to the game through the Professional Women’s Hockey League, one thing might stand out compared to the men’s game — how difficult it is to see a player’s name.

Many hockey stars in women’s hockey have long hair, which unfortunately results in part of their name being covered.

Due to this, the league’s newest sponsor — Molson — has launched a new campaign, which will be seen on ice for the first time in Friday night’s game between Toronto and Montreal.

Molson’s ‘See My Name’ campaign is moving the traditional name bar location on jerseys from the back of the shoulders to the player’s lower back, thus making the name visible.

With this, Molson’s logo will be taking the name bar’s place in the middle of the upper back, covering theirs, “so hers can be seen.”

“We want to elevate the players and bring everyone in on hockey,” said Maddie Gillmeister, senior marketing manager for Molson. “Molson is known for supporting hockey, and we’re incredibly excited to bring that support to the PWHL, which is helping grow women’s hockey like never before.

“Women are underrepresented in the sporting world,” said Gillmeister. “International Women’s Day provides a starting point for Molson to help bring more recognition to women hockey players alongside the PWHL.”

WATCH: Molson – See My Name advertisement

“International Women’s Day is important for celebrating and recognizing women who are change-makers, which makes it fitting for an initiative like See My Name that provides unique recognition for PWHL players,” said Jayna Hefford, PWHL Senior Vice President of Hockey Operations in a statement. “I look forward to seeing Montréal and Toronto hit the ice with these special jerseys on Friday.”

CityNews own Sandra Prusina has been a part of hockey broadcasting with the former Canadian Women’s Hockey League. She’s one of many who support the move.

“I think it’s great, and it’s long overdue, not only from a broadcaster’s perspective but for fans of the game,” explained Prusina.

“I also admire the PWHL for thinking outside of the box and setting itself apart from other pro hockey leagues in North America by moving the name bars to the bottom. The PWHL is truly forming its own path.”

Molson adds that there’s been a growing interest in women’s sports, however, there’s also a lack of familiarity due in part to a lack of equitable sports media coverage

“According to a 2022 study, women’s sports accounted for a mere 15 per cent of total sports media coverage. And traditional jersey design isn’t helping matters,” said Molson in a statement.