Olympic gold-medalist forward Kristen Simms detailed her experience being drafted by the Toronto Sceptres during the Professional Women’s Hockey League draft in June 2026 [1].
Simms arrives in the PWHL as a high-profile rookie, bringing international championship experience to the Toronto roster. Her transition to the professional level marks a significant addition to the team's offensive capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The draft ceremony in Toronto, Ontario, served as the backdrop for Simms to share her emotions regarding the selection process [2]. As a player who previously won a gold medal at the 2022 Winter Olympics [3], Simms said that the experience of being drafted was a pivotal moment in her career.
Simms discussed the expectations she holds for her role within the Sceptres organization. She said she wants to be a dynamic presence on the ice and a source of energy for the fans in Toronto. The rookie expressed a commitment to an aggressive and engaging style of play.
"I like to entertain and bring excitement to the game," Simms said [4].
Her arrival follows a period of growth for the PWHL as it continues to attract elite global talent. The 2026 draft cycle focused on integrating collegiate and international stars into the professional fold to increase the league's overall competitiveness [1].
Simms said the process of being drafted was an intense experience, but one that solidified her readiness to contribute to the Sceptres. The team looks to leverage her speed and scoring ability to improve their standing in the league.
“I like to entertain and bring excitement to the game.”
The addition of an Olympic gold medalist like Simms demonstrates the PWHL's ability to attract top-tier international talent. By securing players with proven success on the world stage, the Toronto Sceptres are positioning themselves to shift the competitive balance of the league while increasing the commercial appeal of women's professional hockey in Canada.
