Since day one, Rinkster has been more than just a sponsor. It has been a driving force behind the growth of women’s roller hockey.

The Rinkster Women’s Roller Hockey (WRH) Draft Tournament, now heading into its 2026 event, started with a simple goal. Create a competitive, inclusive space for female players to connect, compete, and elevate the game.

What began in 2022 with just 8 teams has quickly evolved into one of the premier women’s roller hockey events in North America.

Built by Players, for Players

The tournament was founded by two Rinkster Factory Team athletes, Allison Era and Laura Veharanta, who saw an opportunity to build something bigger for the women’s game.

They didn’t wait for change. They created it.

With Rinkster backing the vision from the start as title sponsor, the event has scaled year after year, both in size and in impact.

Rapid Growth in Just Four Years

The numbers tell the story:

• 2022: 8 teams, single division
• 2026: 18 teams, 4 divisions
• Players ranging from youth to adult women
• Athletes traveling from across the U.S., Canada, and beyond

What was once a small draft-style event is now a multi-division tournament that brings together over 280 players across all levels of the game.

And it’s still growing.

More Than a Tournament

WRH isn’t just about games on the rink. It’s about creating opportunity.

• Giving young girls a place to compete and be seen
• Providing pathways for development and higher-level play
• Building a community that supports female athletes long-term

This is where players meet teammates, mentors, and future teammates at the next level.

Rinkster’s Commitment to Women’s Hockey

Rinkster’s role goes far beyond having its name on the event.

From sponsoring athletes to investing in events like WRH, the focus is clear. Support the players. Grow the game.

That commitment is showing up across the sport:

• Expanded women’s divisions at tournaments worldwide
• Increased visibility and competition opportunities
• Growth in prize pools, including emerging pro-level payouts

The momentum in women’s roller hockey is real, and Rinkster is leaning into it.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 WRH Draft Tournament marks another step forward, not a finish line.

More players. More teams. More opportunity.

The goal is simple. Keep building.

Because when you invest in women’s sports, the return isn’t just growth. It’s a stronger, more competitive future for the game as a whole.