The new Professional Women’s Hockey League means Jess Jones gets to write a new chapter in her career, just as she thought it might be winding down.

The Demorestville native graduated from NCAA Mercyhurst before carving out a handful of seasons as one of the leading players in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League.

But after that League folded in 2019, Ms. Jones figured her active playing days were over. She graduated Ontario Police College and was on her way to a career in law enforcement for the OPP.

She kept her hand in with tournaments through the Professional Women’s Hockey Player’s Association, but had settled into the life of the weekend player.

But this summer, rumours of a women’s professional league, with hockey icons like Jayna Hefford and Brian Burke, reached Ms. Jones. They brought fresh inspiration — and excitement.

It could be a chance to be in the Original 6 for the women’s game.

“I wish it had come five years ago,” Ms. Jones said with a laugh. “I decided to really dedicate myself and start training. For me, this is like the NHL and I didn’t want to miss this opportunity.”

Part of a Pioneering Class

Toronto General Manager Gina Kingsbury contacted the County product and invited her to a tryout camp in the city. Ms. Jones went into the series of skates knowing that she would need to have the week of her life for a shot at cracking Toronto’s inaugural lineup.

“I thought I had a good camp. I’m never going to be the fastest skater in the rink but I can still use my smarts to get things done,” she said.

Last week, Ms. Jones got the news. She’d made the opening night roster.

“I‘m excited to be in Toronto, after being in the city for so long, it feels like home and the team we have is going to be fantastic,” she said.

Ms. Jones said she is not taking anything for granted at this stage of her career. 

“I’m ready to work my way into the lineup. I’ll need to earn my ice time.” 

Ms. Jones appreciates the influx of good wishes from the County. When the Gazette broke the news one of our own was going to be part of the pioneering class of the PWHL, the social media love travelled far and wide.

“There’s been huge support from home. I appreciate all of it and it goes such a long way when people recognize the hard work you’ve put in. I really have to say thank you to everyone back in the County.”

Ms. Jones and Toronto will play New York in the first ever PWHL game on New Year’s Day at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, formerly known as Maple Leaf Gardens.