by Hazze Sports | November 18, 2025 Photo owned by New York Sirens The New York Sirens held a virtual media availability on Tuesday featuring General Manager Pascal Daoust , head coach Greg Fargo , and team captain Micah Zandee-Hart as the organization prepares to open the 2025–26 season this weekend. Daoust confirmed that all remaining players have officially signed, including draft picks Casey O’Brien , Anna Bargman , Kaylee Doyle  and Maddi Wheeler. Each player signed a one-year deal, while multi-year extensions were finalized earlier this offseason for several core players. “This group represents the identity we want to build here in New York,” Daoust said. “The work ethic, leadership, and commitment we see from these players set the tone for what we expect this season and beyond.” Daoust also provided updates on two players. Draft pick Makenna Webster  will join the team following her participation in the Olympic Games. Dale Ross  will miss the opening games as she completes the medical clearance process. Fargo praised the team’s progress in training camp and preseason games. “We have a fast, tenacious group that pays attention to every detail,” Fargo said. “They move the puck well, work hard and bring the energy we want to see on the ice. This is a team that can adapt and grow as the season unfolds.” The Sirens announced their leadership group, naming Sarah Fillier  and Jamie Bourbonnais  as alternate captains alongside Zandee-Hart. Daoust said the decision was unanimous and highlighted the players’ consistency, professionalism and ability to lead by example. Zandee-Hart described the collaboration within the leadership group. “We all lead in different ways but share the same values,” she said. “Having Sarah and Jamie alongside me creates the right environment for our team to succeed.” The Sirens are set to open the season on Saturday, November 22nd, in Ottawa, blending veteran experience with young talent ready to make an impact.

By: Marni Zinger Image Provided by PWHL he Professional Women’s Hockey League is off to a terrific start in its second season as a professional league. All six teams have three games under their belt, with the defending Walter Cup champions, the Minnesota Frost sitting atop the league  with seven points, winning two games in regulation and an overtime loss as Toronto Sceptres and Boston Fleet sit at the bottom of the standings, tied with three points each and both with a 1-2 record. The PWHL hosted a media availability for all six teams on Wed Dec 11, 2024, here's what they had to say about looking forward to home openers next week. NEW YORK SIRENS The New York Sirens (home arena is the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.), Sarah Fillier, ( Sirens rookie forward)  along with captain and veteran defender, Micah Zandee-Hart spoke about their excitement with the coming season. Madeline Kenney from the New York Post engaged Sarah Fillier in a discussion about her upcoming home opener. She highlighted that Fillier's Princeton head coach mentioned that several teammates would be taking a train to the game, prompting her to reflect on how exciting it is to be so close to her college grounds. In response, Sarah expressed her enthusiasm for the event, noting, “It's kind of a cool mix of both. But yeah, I think I'm super excited to get my Princeton teammates up to watch us, but I have a ton of friends and family coming down from Toronto to watch…it's been a huge group effort by my friends and family. And they've been just as much of a part of it as I've lived it…for them [to get] to see me play pro, in person will be really cool.” Jolene Latimer with The Score  asked Micah Zandee-Hart, who is native to Canada, about the biggest differences on the ice from last season to this one. Micah answered, “Just the games that you've played. I think just the confidence. When we started this league last year, we had some players who had gone a couple seasons where they maybe only played 20 games or maybe less than that. Depending if you're in the PWHPA, maybe you're in the PHF, maybe you're in college. We had some players that didn't have a ton of gameplay coming into a 24-game season, whereas this year we have girls from last year that played a full season, and then we have all the draft class that were coming from a season previous as well. So I think it just made the transition into gameplay a bit easier. There wasn't as much of an adjustment period leading to kind of the confidence you're seeing.  OTTAWA CHARGE The Ottawa Charge (home arena is the TD Place Arena, in Ottawa, Ontario), Mannon McMahon (recent University of Minnesota-Duluth Women’s Hockey alumni and Charge rookie forward ) and Ashton Bell (University of Minnesota-Duluth Women’s Hockey alumni and Charge veteran defender )  spoke about the transition from collegiate level hockey to the pro level as well as the changes made by General Manager Hirshfeld to better their team. Ian Kennedy for The Hockey News  asked Mannon McMahon who is from Minn, about the biggest challenges going from the college ranks to the pro ranks. Mannon answered confidently, “Obviously the physicality is one piece that a lot of people talk about, but I think from my perspective, just the pace of the game, just like from my first practice, pucks are moving so quickly. Everyone on the ice is fast. So, in order to keep up with the pace, you need to play faster too.”  Tyler Kuehler for Daily Faceoff  asked Ashton Bell about the activity and transactions the Charge made during the offseason and how its making the team better. Ashton who is native to Canada, shared with joy, “Yeah, I think really well. I think we learned a lot about ourselves in the first three games. Obviously, we lost our first one to Montreal in a shootout, which was a really close game, and then getting our first win in our home opener was pretty special. And then our game at Canadian Tire. But I think we learned a lot about our group and where we need to grow, but it's definitely exciting with the group we do have and we think we could be very competitive this year, so we're excited.” BOSTON FLEET The Boston Fleet, who made the 2024 Walter Cup Finals alongside the Frost (home arena is Tsongas Center in Lowell, Mass) Hannah Bilka (the fourth overall draft pick in the 2024 PWHL Draft (Northeastern University alumni) and Aerin Frankel ( Boston Fleet veteran goaltender)  spoke about their playing styles and the impact this years draft class is having on the league. Tyler Kuehler with  Daily Faceoff asked Hannah Bilka, about the physical level of play in the league versus the collegiate level. Hannah answered, “Yeah, I think it's a bit of an adjustment, but you kind of learn ways to play your game by also balancing the physicality. I think [you] just kind of keep moving your feet and always having your head up, knowing the play, before you get the puck. So it's just little things that I think I'm learning every game and trying to get better at, but yeah, it's definitely, I think it makes the game overall more fun and competitive because people are playing with that extra edge.”  Madie Hricik with the Associated Press  asked Aerin Frankel about this years draft class and the contribution they’re giving on the ice. Aerin answered, “There's just no nights off. Every team is so strong and so deep, especially offensively. Every team is pretty stacked with goal-scoring ability. So you kind of have to be ready every shift, every shot of the game for me. And, it's been fun though. It adds a challenge to the game playing against some of these young players with so much skill, [and] so much talent, and it makes the games a lot more fun. And we saw a lot of that last year, but obviously this year we didn't expand and we just brought in more talent. So it's just an even more concentrated pool of the best players in the world.” TORONTO SCEPTRES The Toronto Sceptres, (home arena is the Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto, Ontario) Izzy Daniel ( Sceptres rookie forward)  and Renata Fast ( Sceptres alternate captain)  spoke about the upcoming season and how Izzy Daniel is making the transition from living in the United States to living in Canada. PWHL PR  asked Renata Fast about her second season in the PWHL and how it has been going for her so far. Fast answered, “It's been great. It's been awesome to be back. I think the group's been really enjoying it, we have a new space at our practice facility at Ford Performance Center. So that's been awesome to kind of get settled in with our group and, and have, a nice locker room, a nice space to enjoy each other. And then obviously being back at Coca-Cola and building off of playoffs and how incredible the fans were there. So, yeah, the first couple weeks of season two have been incredible.” Mike Gantry of the Toronto Sun  asked Izzy Daniel about adapting to a new country on and off the ice. Daniel answered, “I mean, it's definitely different. Canada is very similar to Minnesota in a lot of different ways, but just little things like the metric system or the temperature and stuff, that is new to me. The currency. It’s been really great. I'm living with Julia Gosling, so she's been a big help. She's my chauffeur, so she's helped a lot. And then everyone’s been super welcoming, and I felt really comfortable right off the bat. I feel like I'm kind of finally starting to open up and be myself, so that's a credit to my teammates. It's been a really great experience so far.” MONTRÉAL VICTOIRE The Montréal Victoire (home arena is Place Bell in Laval, Quebec) Cayla Barnes  (Victoire rookie defender)  and Ann-Renée Desbiens ( Victoire veteran goaltender)  spoke about the upcoming West Coast trip and Barnes spoke talked about the changes and differences of living in Quebec. Ian Kennedy from The Hockey News  asked Ann-Renée Desbiens, who along with Izzy Daniel and Aerin Frankel, also won the Patty Kazmaier award in 2017 about the upcoming four-game road trip to the West Coast. Desbiens answered excitedly, “For the potential of playing that way in the future, having a Western conference at some point, I think it's very exciting. You get a lot of the road games out at the same time so you don't have to pack your suitcase four times a month; you can kind of do it all at once. But obviously, very interesting cities. I've been fortunate enough to play in Seattle and Vancouver in the past, and the crowds have always been so supportive of women's hockey, so I can't wait to get back there being in Colorado and Denver for the first time is also going to be pretty exciting so yes it's going to be an adaptation. We'll definitely use that time to spend more quality time as a team, maybe do some team-building activities, explore, and enjoy your time as a team together.” Mike Gantry from the Toronto Sun  asked Cayla Barnes, who played Division 1 collegiate hockey in the States about how she’s adjusting to living in a new country and adapting to a new language. Barnes said candidly, “Honestly, the transition has been really smooth. I was a little nervous at first, just never knowing what to expect, but it's been amazing. Ever since I got here, the girls here and the staff here have been so welcoming and helpful with anything that I have needed. And honestly, we honestly have a really great group of girls here; We all get along, we're always laughing, [and] having a good time at the rink. It's been a really smooth transition, and honestly, I feel really honored to be around such a great group of women every day.” MINNESOTA FROST The Minnesota Frost (home arena is the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn) Dominique Petrie ( Frost rookie forward )  along with, Michela Cava ( Frost veteran forward)  talked to the media about accolades given to Cava and Petrie’s notable start to her rookie season. PWHL PR  asked Michela Cava, who previously played for the Swedish Women’s Hockey League in Sweden, about her accomplishment as second PWHL star of the week and her own start to the season. Cava told PWHL PR , “Season going, we had really good games. Got six points on the road, and I thought our team played really well. Physical, fast, exactly what we needed to do to come back with the two wins. It was a pretty good week. A good week for us, just getting some recovery and now having some good practices again this week, so great.  PWHL PR talked to Dominique Petrie about her start to her professional career and how she’s been contributing with her three goals in three games. Petrie answered, “Yeah, I mean, it's been awesome. I think as you said, I don't really think I could have pictured this happening, but just really excited that it is. And I said it before, but I think a lot of it comes down to the players around me and the coaching staff behind me, just kind of instilling the confidence in myself and in my game to go out there night in and night out and to perform to the best of my ability. And then ultimately, just doing whatever I can to help the team win in our first three games.”  All six PWHL teams are on an International Break from Dec 9 until Dec 16. The PWHL will resume play on Dec 17 where the Charge will take on the Fleet at the Tsongas Center  at 7 pm EST in Lowell, Mass. Few teams looking forward to their home openers and ready to jump back into action.

by Ariana Ottrando | November 13, 2025 West Orange, NJ- After a long off-season, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) New York Sirens are back on the ice for the 2025-26 season. For the first of two preseason scrimmages, the Sirens hosted the defending two-time champion Minnesota Frost Thursday afternoon at Essex County Codey Arena, and fell 5-2. The teams also played a mock overtime and shootout as additional practice for the week’s official training camp. Behind a hat trick by Sarah Fillier , New York secured the split with Minnesota in Friday’s match at 6-2. The win should be a confidence booster for the team into the upcoming practice weeks ahead of the season opener  against Vancouver on Nov. 29. Entering the league’s third year, as one of the original six, the Sirens are hungry following last place seedings  in both seasons thus far. Two crucial pieces to that puzzle will be the first and third overall picks in this year’s draft class , Kristýna Kaltounková and Casey O’Brien  (via TOR), respectively. These Sirens forwards will quickly become reliable assets to this rebuilding squad. Kaltounková concluded her NCAA career as Colgate’s all-time leading goal scorer (111) and second in career points (233). And from Wisconsin hockey, O’Brien  is coming off a National Championship title and program record — having recorded the most points of any Badger in a season in the school’s history with 88 (26G, 62A). “Stay patient, trust the process, and believe in our team”: Those are the keys for this Sirens’ group to achieving their goals and reaching new heights this season, according to Kaltounková. “We’re a young, fast team, so I think the highlights of [Thursday’s scrimmage] all came from hunting pucks, being really aggressive [,and] using our speed,” said O’Brien. “The more we do that, the more turnovers we cause and the more offense we create.” In anticipation of the first official game of the season at the end of the month, the scrimmages against the Frost served as the first outings for this new Sirens team — and the first ever professional hockey games in the rookies’ careers. “I think the biggest thing is the physicality,” said O’Brien, on her biggest takeaway from her first game as a Siren. “Obviously in college you can’t be finishing your hits, but it was nice to just get our feet wet and see what the league is like today.” Kaltounková reciprocated that the physical component, as well as speed, stood out to her at this level — but not in a way that’s intimidating.  “It’s fast and it’s physical, and I really enjoy that,” she said. “Just being aware, keep[ing] your head up, but I think I’ve been preparing for that on and off the ice — because there’s a lot of off-ice stuff that goes into that too.” Although currently sidelined with an injury, Dayle Ross , rookie defender and St. Cloud alumnus, is also experiencing a positive transition and welcome to the team. “Everyone is super mature, super energetic, and obviously the atmosphere is really good,” said Ross. While the recent league expansion will make earning a spot in the playoffs even harder, experiencing great success at the NCAA level only adds to the fuel that these rookies bring to the mix for attaining more this year as a young collective. Once their chemistry builds with time, there’s no stopping the Sirens — a team whose rising confidence and obvious talent is becoming impossible to ignore. “Creating family off the ice is a huge thing. Once everybody in the locker room… has bought into the same goals, it makes everything on the ice so much easier and I think we’re already off to a great start here,” O’Brien said.

Gallery by Sojung Kim | November 16,2025 The Toronto Sceptres secured a 3-2 overtime victory over the Ottawa Charge on Sunday afternoon at TD Place, taking the opener in their two-game preseason set. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery By Christina Winnegar | 11/16/2025 The Vancouver Canucks stunned the Tampa Bay Lightning with a third-period comeback, sealing the Sunday night win at Benchmark International Arena with a final score of 6-2. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Allison Cho | November 8, 2025 The Ontario Reign  flipped the script on November 8th night, defeating the San Diego Gulls  4–3 in overtime at Toyota Arena in front of 9,000+ fans, just one night after dropping a 6–4 loss in San Diego. Glenn Gawdin  scored twice in the first period and Aatu Jämsen  added another early in the second to give Ontario a 3–0 lead. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Olivia King | November 12, 2025 Wednesday night, November 12th, the Boston Eagles hosted the Rider Broncs at a home basketball game. Boston University dominated Rider University, winning 92-52, claiming their third win of the season. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Allison Cho | November 15 2025 The No. 2 UCLA Bruins  battled through steady rain to hold off the No. 1 USC Trojans  14–13 on Saturday, November 15, at Uytengsu Aquatics Center, closing out a classic crosstown showdown on USC’s Senior Day. UCLA’s comeback win not only extended its lead in the storied rivalry but also secured the Bruins’ third straight MPSF West regular-season title after finishing 5–1 this year. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC. They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Photographed by Kai Staton-Green | November 5th, 2025

By Christina Winnegar | 11/7/2025 The Carolina Hurricanes held off a late push from the Minnesota Wild , securing their fourth win at home for the 2025-26 season on Thursday Night at Lenovo Center. Carolina built an early lead backed by intense defensive pressure and elite goaltending from Frederik Andersen throughout. Securing the Raleigh crowd, another strong win. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC and the National Hockey League (NHL). They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Interview by Emily Kulyk | Nov. 4th, 2025 The cold air of an ice rink is a familiar feeling to Lilah Sweillam. She’s not on the ice to play. She’s likely behind a camera, maybe on a headset, afterward recording interviews for her podcast, in the very arena where the pro arc begins for most of her interviewees. The all-encompassing energy of sports is something many can relate to. It certainly drew Sweillam in. What started as helping out on her high school hockey team has evolved into something much larger. That is a growing career in sports media built on connection, natural curiosity and a touch of courage. With those glimpses of a future being laid out before her, it was a path she began walking down.  Sweillam grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut, where sports became prevalent early on in her life. She learned lessons that can be discovered when one immerses oneself in the world of sports. Success was found in both gymnastics and lacrosse. She would spend time coaching young children to improve their skills. Her talent was being used to help the next generation of players.  It remained close to home and she would work with the team she had played for. Coaching young children comes with its own set of challenges to navigate. Breaking down drills while keeping the game fun had been one of those challenges. Coaching the same team she once played for taught her patience and leadership showed her how much she appreciated helping others grow. It was another notch in her belt as she paved her path working in sports. As time went on, Sweillam realized what commitment meant. There was a newfound appreciation for sports and all that goes into it. Keeping those ideas in mind continued to help shape how she would look at athletes and what dedication looks like. “Time is the most valuable thing a person has, and in sports, it’s easy to see how quickly that can run out, which is why I’ve always had empathy for people who dedicate their lives to it,” she says.  She mentioned the ideas around never giving up and not being afraid to try to her parents. “They instilled in me to never have fear of being told no, and to never fear that something is too much of a reach for you to do,” she said. Having that in mind continued to help Sweillam strive for more. The part of not fearing anything would come in handy when she’d come up with the next idea to test out. “They’re the first people to know kind of take it on with me, and be like ‘OK, what are we going to do now?’” she mentions. A foundation was set and taking on the next idea would happen in high school. Sweillam did not have to look far for the next opportunity. Inside the chilly walls of an ice rink is where luck and a chance would be found. The high school varsity hockey team would be the next challenge she would take on. The functions were basic. The role included keeping track of time and reviewing a stat sheet. But with that, she found a sense of connection, perhaps a level she never tapped into prior. Interacting with the team and creating friendships was where Sweillam saw the possibilities begin to open.  The rush that she’d feel of being part of a team was when she realized she wanted to stay in this world. “I’d be like, ‘Oh my gosh, today is such a great day.’ It’s game day and I wasn’t even the one playing. I was like, ‘Alright, it’s a little too much, let’s chill a little bit. You’re not the actual one playing,’” she says. The team won two championships during her time there. But it’s the palpable and buzzing excitement that pushes the next idea to the front.  The desire to be involved and included in this popular community fostered passion, excitement and connection for her. A standout moment she reflects on is being on the ice, getting to celebrate with the team. The rush of excitement confirmed this is it for Sweillam; she knew this was something she loved.  It doesn’t get much bigger than the University of Michigan’s athletic department. With the idea of wanting more, Sweillam took on something larger than her high school hockey team. The idea of how she got there was seemingly simple. A typical, right place, right time situation. The examples showing that Sweillam was meant to be working in sports were adding up. Eating with her parents on Accepted Students Day led to the girl working at the pizza restaurant, giving her the information to get involved with several clubs in the athletic department. She took that information and created a spot for herself. Sweillam found herself in an ice rink. One that was much bigger and held national attention when compared to the high school team she worked with. She had her role with the hockey team early on. Starting college would also mean Sweillam would have her first chance working with an NCAA hockey team. Some new responsibilities and outlooks would need to be taken on.  Instead of stat sheets and being a timekeeper, she ran large social media platforms. Going behind the scenes was an exciting element Sweillam wanted to share with everyone. Giving everyone the chance to see what she got to see. Maybe it was a pregame warm-up among players, a moment post-game or a storyline she would have the pieces to. Bridging Sweillam and social media gives fans a better chance at seeing those moments.  While hockey may have been the main focus for her, learning how other sports ran helped to round out the experience. “Standing on the field at the Big House surrounded by fans and seeing the energy in the stadium made me realize how much I love being part of this industry,” she mentions. The previous feelings of excitement, connection, and now seeing the storytelling aspect unfold had been special for Sweillam.  College brought on another moment Sweillam didn’t expect. She noticed how often vulnerability gets overlooked in sports, so she created a space where her guests could share the sides of themselves that fans and followers may not see. Her own podcast, Ice Breakers, launched late in 2024. There was a gap she intended to close. She wanted to change that idea by creating a connection and humanization. Fans may not think of those ideas. But with the right storylines, it would become a common theme. The podcast centers around bringing on guests who allow the collapse between a fan or listener and the personality or athlete Sweillam would speak to. The focus is primarily on the human and how to bring that forward. This is a topic that would get lost, and was a gap she noticed. Many fans enjoy and appreciate seeing their favorite players or personalities in a new light. There is now a seat at a table where that could be done.  Her first episode features a guest whom Sweillam didn’t have to look far. It’s the captain of the University of Michigan hockey team, Jacob Truscott. The connection she built by working with the team created an avenue to explore on the podcast. After the first episode, like her other moments in sports, she felt like there had been something there, something more to explore. “And from there, I kind of just took it and ran with it and saw whoever I could get, I was open to. And you know, I impressed myself. I accomplished a lot in a very short amount of time,” Sweillam said. The guest list had ranged from Olympic athletes to familiar faces within the NFL. Her natural ability to create connections and read social cues helps with the interviewing portion. There is a layer of empathy that can’t be taught, and Sweillam displays that throughout. This plays into the idea of being vulnerable while telling a story that may help others do the same. The positive feedback she received fueled her to do more. The next role she signed onto would be none other than Barstool Sports. A name many know, even if they may not know how they know it. Working with Barstool gave Sweillam another inside perspective she had been looking for. Similar to the ones she had gotten when working with the hockey team. Barstool employees gave her a taste of bringing someone in, allowing them to shine. She mentions they answer the questions she presents and encourages trying out new ideas.  A little bit of creative freedom granted by one of the largest sports media companies had been something special for Sweillam. There was a new level of feeling seen, heard and excited. Being vulnerable and building connections is kind of like the foundation of not only her podcast, but who she is as a person. There is an understanding of what the topics mean and how they play a role in the lives of who Sweillam speaks to. She allows herself to be in a place of vulnerability first before connecting with interviewees.  In the grand scheme of it all, it’s not a big moment. It’s enough to break the ice, so to speak. Having that moment is brave, and doing it first may be even braver. “I think it’s just my ability to talk,” she said about first creating a connection. “I’ve been this way my whole life. I’m not afraid to be the vulnerable one first to that person,” she continued. It may just be talking, but a conversation is being built on much more than that. The roles she has taken on will help to fuel future projects. It makes sense that she would return to offer insight to a place where a portion of her career began, her high school. She continues to advise and help support the interests of students where she once was. She credits the mentors she has worked with. Having this role also supports the idea of building connection, which is a foundational piece of what she represents.  Sweillam has many exciting things planned for the future. She’s not done growing in the sports media space. She’s also open to seeing what else is out there. Noting she finds the business side interesting. Sweillam set the stage for many individuals to tell their story. She is getting the chance to have hers told through all of her hard work.  With a little bit more time at Michigan, there is time to continue working on what’s next for her. Younger her wouldn’t have expected this.“I think younger me would be really proud. I think she would be really surprised we’re in sports,” she said.  One would assume this was the plan all along, but the unexpected worked out even better. Whether she’s interviewing athletes or helping to tell a story, she keeps finding new points to touch on, and ideas to build on. Some may say she’s finding new ways to break the ice.

Gallery by Sojung Kim | 11/2/2025 In a thrilling 2-1 victory for Angel City over Chicago , the night became truly unforgettable as it marked the final professional match for two legends of the game: Christen Press and Ali Riley . These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC and may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

Gallery by Holly Arend | 11/1/2025 The Hershey Bears handed the Providence Bruins their first loss of the season with a 2–0 win Saturday night at Amica Mutual Pavilion. Ryan Chesley opened the scoring on the power play, and Matt Strome added an empty-netter late in the third. Providence generated steady pressure and 25 shots on goal, but Garin Bjorklund turned aside each one for the shutout, while Louie Belpedio recorded two assists for Hershey. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC and may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

By Christina Winnegar | 10/30/2025 The Tampa Bay Lightning secured a 2-1 overtime win against the Dallas Stars on Thursday Night at Benchmark International Arena. Brandon Hagel put Tampa Bay on the board with a power-play goal in the second period before Adam Erne evened the score early in the third. In overtime, Anthony Cirelli sealed the victory just over two minutes in, lifting the Lightning to their fourth straight win of the 2025-26 season. These photos are owned by HAZZE MEDIA, LLC and the National Hockey League (NHL). They may not be redistributed, sold, or used for commercial purposes without explicit permission.

By Christina Winnegar | October 29, 2025 The inconsistency in the National Football League's (NFL) use of real grass versus synthetic turf is not just a matter of preference for fans in the audience, but a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. While it offers a green and aesthetically pleasing choice for the audience, for the league's players, it presents a daunting red flag, especially given the risk of a season-ending injury.  On Sept. 28, 2025, New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers ’ career changed forever, the injury marking him as another victim of unsafe turf. Crumpled, untouched on the white sideline paint, clutching his knee, the crowd went silent. Another promising future stopped cold, not by a hit, but by the very turf that once grounded him with hope and opportunity. Nabers was not the first; in fact, he joined a growing list, including star players like Aaron Rodgers  and Odell Beckham Jr. , who have suffered from career-threatening injuries. Collisions from the opposing team that occur across the line of scrimmage are often to blame, but the true culprit may be the surface beneath their cleats. It is time for the NFL to live up to the game it claims to have created for the players and mandate natural grass in every stadium. The league's conscious decision to do anything less is putting their greatest assets second to convenience. The Evolution of Artificial Turf  According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) , the first installation of synthetic turf across any major sporting venue occurred in Houston, Texas, at the Astrodome in 1966. What is now known as AstroTurf was originally referred to as ChemGrass, described by the NIH  as a short-fiber, dense nylon carpet, installed over a compacted soil base. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, many of the multisport stadiums that players still suit up to play in today replaced their natural turfgrass with artificial turf, commonly branded as AstroTurf.  The intrigue behind the change lay in its ability to withstand high levels of impact while maintaining a consistent playing surface. The first generation, labeled as "AstroTurf," paved the way for the second generation, invented in 1976 by Frederick T. Haas. Then, the third generation, developed by FieldTurf, gained popularity in 1997 with its installation debut at a high school in Pennsylvania. The development of artificial turf had an underlying purpose of being a cost-saving alternative.  As of 2025, 15 out of 30 stadiums hosting the NFL’s 32 teams still use artificial turf despite growing concerns from players, medical experts and safety advocates. According to Pro Football Network’s 2025 stadium surface analysis, which further notes that 15 stadiums use turf and 15 use some form of real or hybrid grass, the league remains evenly split on surface types. Among those with artificial turf are high-revenue venues like MetLife Stadium, AT&T Stadium, and Ford Field, which faced scrutiny over injury risks. The Case for Turf: Cost, Climate and Convenience Owners and stadium operators argue that turf is more practical and cost-effective; their main points concern citing savings on water upkeep and ground crews. Estimated surveys from the  Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) indicate that maintaining a high-quality natural grass athletic field typically ranges from approximately $6,000 to $49,000 per year, depending on the climate and usage, compared to the $7,000 to $23,000 per year range offered by synthetic turf. For multipurpose venues, like stadiums lacking climate control and enclosing roofing systems, turf is also known to be more manageable and less vulnerable to weather damage. A 2023 AP News Report  noted that many college and pro teams opt for synthetic turf because it can handle the variation in climates throughout the seasons and heavier year-round usage. At MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, home to both the New York Giants and New York Jets, the proposed financial defense collapses under evaluation. According to a 2024 Forbes Analysis , the venue’s valuation exceeds $1.6 billion, and both teams are owned by franchises valued at $10.1 billion for the Giants and $8.1 billion for the Jets. Converting MetLife’s highly criticized synthetic field to natural, or hybrid grass (a mix of natural grass reinforced with synthetic fibers for added durability) would cost an estimated $1.25 to $2 million, according to CNBC’s 2025 NFL Team Valuations Report . The overall installation cost, coupled with roughly $1 million per year in maintenance per the SFMAs'  estimates, is predicted to be less than 0.015% of the Giants’ total franchise value. The same logic applies to another heavily criticized field in Detroit, Michigan. Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions, is valued at $6.35 billion per CNBC’s 2025 NFL Team Valuations Report . A full turf-to-grass conversion, including the heating installation needed for Michigan’s winter conditions, would cost approximately $2 million according to SFMA  estimates. This would be predicted to be about 0.05% of the overall franchise value. According to the SFMA , annual upkeep for a natural or hybrid system would average up to $1 million.  In both markets, the supposed economic burden of real grass is dull in comparison to the financial scale of the franchises themselves. The argument that turf saves money may sound pragmatic, but it rings void under the weight of the league’s own financials.  Some research also complicates the narrative. A 2023 review in eClinicalMedicine  amalgamated multiple studies and found the overall incidence baseline of football-related injuries was 14% lower on artificial turf than on grass. Other studies have shown that while turf raises the risk of lower-extremity damage, grass may be associated with higher rates of specific upper-body injuries.  The NFL’s ‘False’ Economy  Despite minor conflicting data, those argumentative points do not outweigh the broader picture. Even with the grass having a higher maintenance cost compared to synthetic turf, the NFL has no ground to stand on for financial defense. According to CNBC's 2025 NFL Team Valuations  estimate, it is expected to generate $22 billion in revenue across the league's 32 teams. With a league grossing at such a high level, saving a few million annually at the expense of player health is not a financial obligation; it is a choice the league is actively making. Furthermore, while some injury studies show mixed results, the most recent study by the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA)  and peer-reviewed data  consistently identify synthetic turf as a hazard for lower extremity injuries; these injuries are likely to end the careers of franchise players.  When the Field Fights Back Injury data and player testimonials have sharpened the debate over the past decade. According to the NFLPA , non-contact lower-extremity injuries occur at a significantly higher rate on turf than on grass. A 2022 analysis found a 28%  higher rate of such injuries on artificial turf compared to natural surfaces, with knee and ankle injuries disproportionately represented. Peer-reviewed research published in the Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine  parroted these findings, reporting elevated odds of ACL and Achilles injuries on fields laid with synthetic turf compared to grass. The issue is not purely academic; it plays out weekly in front of millions of viewers tuning in to watch the broadcast games or watching in the same confines. As recently as Sept. 28, 2025, when New York Giants rookie  Malik Nabers suffered from an ACL tear  at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, there were statistics to support the calls for reform. Odell Beckham Jr., who fractured his ankle in MetLife Stadium  while playing for the New York Giants on Oct. 8, 2017, has been among the most vocal critics.  In a recent post on X following the injury of Nabers, tagging the league directly, Beckham Jr. wrote, "Dear  @NFL , I mean this with the upmost love and respect. We (The NFL) take all The precautions in the world with EVERYthing else when it comes to players "health" and "safety". PLZ. PLZ. PLZ. GET RID OF THE * TURF. Thank You in advance. LUV." The data speaks for itself: synthetic turf is more dangerous than real grass. In the NFLPA ’s 2022 study, on-contact, lower extremity injuries between 2018-2023 occurred more frequently on turf, with 32% more knee-related injuries and a 69% increase in foot and ankle injuries compared to grass.  A peer-reviewed study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine , which analyzed the 2021-22 NFL seasons, found that the incidence of lower extremity injuries was 1.42 per game on artificial turf, compared to 1.22 per game on natural grass. Furthermore, the odds of a season-ending surgery were 60% greater on turf. Another analysis of season-ending lower extremity injuries across various playing surfaces found that synthetic turf was associated with a 16% increase in injury risk per play compared to natural grass.  The 2022  NFLPA survey reflects the sentiments of players leaguewide, 92% of NFL players expressing a strong preference for high-quality natural grass over synthetic turf, citing comfort, stability, and perceived safety. Many described the turf on such fields as "sticky," as their cleats gripping unnaturally, and torque transferring directly into the joints. Sports medicine experts at the University of California, San Francisco , agree, stating that the turf's lack of "give" changes biomechanics, increasing stress on knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.  The turf debate is not just a statistical argument; it is a deeply personal issue for the players. The debate has been fueled by years of high-profile injuries affecting some of the most notable names across the league. For instance, Odell Beckham Jr. tore his ACL  in Super Bowl LVI at SoFi Stadium, a game played on turf. Since this pivotal day in his career, he has grown to become one of the most outspoken critics of the NFL's lack of care. Consistently presenting the issue on a silver platter with the argument that the league’s mission prides itself on player safety. MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and another team Beckham Jr. played for during his active years in the NFL, was another turf-laid field, which led to the previously mentioned ankle fracture in Oct. 2017 . Over the years, it has built a reputation as one of the most perilous fields in the league, with players nicknaming it "DeathLife"  due to the repeated non-contact injuries it causes. Perhaps the most striking was Aaron Rodgers' torn Achilles  on Sept. 11, 2023, during the season opener at MetLife Stadium, which ended his New York Jets season just four plays into his debut. A year later, the narrative repeated with the previously mentioned Nabers' rookie season derailed by an ACL tear on treacherous turf. Together, these recent season-ending injuries at MetLife Stadium alone reinforced the belief among players that the turf is not only unsafe but also predictable. These cases illustrate the broader tradition; turf does not just raise injury risk in abstract percentages, it sidelines stars, alters careers, and reshapes the season-long trajectory of these franchises. The impact of these injuries goes beyond the statistics; it affects the lives and careers of these athletes, and it is time for the NFL to take their safety as seriously as they take their stats.   Hybrid Grass: The Middle Ground The proof of hybrid grass technology and heated, retractable systems is currently evident in stadiums such as Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, home of the Green Bay Packers, and Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, home of the Las Vegas Raiders. The proven success of hybrid systems is a true testament that weather and multi-use events do not have to be a barrier. At Lambeau Field, the Packers utilize a unique hybrid surface consisting of natural Kentucky bluegrass reinforced with synthetic fibers, paired with an underground heating system to combat the ever-changing seasons experienced in Wisconsin. The hybrid design of Lambeau Stadium has been adapted to provide a natural feel for players while mitigating the potential complications that arise as winter approaches. Then, on the flip side, at Allegiant Stadium, the Raiders insist on natural grass, despite playing in a dome. The stadium features a 19-million-pound retractable field tray, which is rolled outside on non-game days to allow for sunlight and maintenance. Then, it is slid and locked into place inside for NFL games, allowing the building to host a multitude of other events without compromising the football surface of choice.  Hybrid grass primarily differs from synthetic turf by using natural grass roots coupled with synthetic reinforcements. According to GrassMaster  and SISGrass , their systems use machines to stitch or inject millions of polymer fibers vertically into the root zone, forming a 2-by-2 centimeter grid that anchors the soil. As the grass begins to grow, its roots wrap around these synthetic fibers, creating a composite surface that blends into the natural softness and shock absorption of grass with the synthetic stability and durability of artificial turf.  While there is no reported data on hybrid injuries from the NFL, league-wide research indicates fewer lower-extremity injuries on natural grass compared to full synthetic grass, likely due to the shock absorption upon impact. By blending the durability of turf with the biomechanical safety of grass, hybrid systems offer a proven compromise. Due to hesitation and worry regarding costs of maintenance and the realism of investing in real grass fields, the hybrid systems present themselves as a realistic and financially viable middle ground that protects the players while accommodating multipurpose venues, ultimately allowing owners, alongside the league, to profit.  These counterarguments are in favor of convenience, not player safety. The facts are precise: the NFL can afford to mandate hybrid or real grass across the remaining 17 stadiums. What it cannot afford is the reputational and marketable toll of ignoring the evidence. The pattern has become painfully familiar: the league's most valuable assets are not the billion-dollar franchises with the logos stitched onto their uniforms, but the athletes who wear them with pride and fill stadiums to drive their yearly revenues. Global Standards: How the Rest of the World Plays It Safe  Outside of the United States, the turf debate has already been settled. Across major international leagues, from soccer to rugby, natural and hybrid grass are the global standard.  According to a 2019 AP News Report , the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) mandates natural or hybrid grass for all World Cup venues, rejecting fields due to performance and safety concerns. Per a June 2024 AP News Repor t, every U.S. stadium hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including Lumen Field (in Seattle, Washington) and NRG Stadium (in Houston, Texas), will temporarily replace their turf with real grass systems to meet FIFA’s requirements.  Other leagues have taken the same stance. World Rugby discourages full synthetic surfaces at elite levels due to inconsistent traction and increased impact in the heavy-contact sport. The World Rugby’s Rugby Turf Performance Specification  states a minor exception, that any artificial turf used for competitive contact rugby must comply with Regulation 22, emphasizing that artificial turf must replicate the playing qualities of good-quality natural grass and provide an environment that does not increase the risk of injury to players.  The rest of the world has already evolved. If global leagues can modernize their fields to optimize safety and performance, the NFL, the world’s most profitable league, can certainly do the same. The question is no longer whether the league could change, but how soon it will choose to.  A Roadmap for Reform The path forward is no longer theoretical. While change may appear daunting, a realistic roadmap already exists. The league could begin with its stadiums on a time clock. Beginning with Lumen Field and NRG Stadium, which are soon to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The change, at least temporarily, is needed by FIFA. This seems the most apparent option to proceed with a more permanent solution versus a temporary one.  Alternatively, the league can focus on high-risk venues, like MetLife Stadium and Ford Field in Detroit, which have recorded some of the most publicised turf-related injuries. Following the 2025-26 season, the NFL and NFLPA could collaborate to commission an independent surface safety review, evaluating the options mentioned and supported by their own data. Following this, by constructing a multi-year conversion plan, mandating owners to implement hybrid or natural grass league-wide by the start of the 2028-29 season and evaluating which teams would benefit from which systems. For example, MetLife Stadium would benefit from hybrid technology similar to Lambeau Field’s, given the similar seasonal climate of New Jersey. Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, would benefit from converting to a real grass system solely based on the average climate.  Change can start small in the communities that make the NFL what it is known to be. Their very own players and their supporting fans have the power in their hands to push for reform by joining together through collective petitioning, sponsorship pressures and boycotting. The same passion amping up on gameday can be brought to their government offices, using multiple methods of contacting officials, leading to states funding stadium renovations or safety regulations as a condition of continued public support. Whether the call comes from, the message roots the same. The NFL has the money, the technology, and the responsibility to act, while the fans have the future of the game in their hands without realizing it. The change starts the second the need for it is acknowledged.  The solution is simple. When franchises across the league can afford to unveil new alternative jerseys to market a new "Rivalries" collection purely for aesthetics, they can afford to put their $22 billion where their mouth is when it comes to protecting what makes the game – the players.  Flip the turf and lay down the grass.  Disclaimer: This article reflects personal opinions and views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official position or editorial stance of HAZZE MEDIA, it’s staff, and editorial team. We publish diverse perspectives to foster dialogue and encourage welcome submissions that contribute to meaningful, thought-provoking conversations.