Three women's hockey players took part in the Edmonton Oilers development camp on June 30, 2026, at Edmonton's Downtown Community Arena, describing the experience as a 'cool opportunity' to train alongside NHL prospects and gain exposure at the professional level.
Participants and their backgrounds
The trio included Chloe Primerano and Caitlin Kraemer, both standout players from Canadian women's hockey programs. The camp provided them with a chance to participate in on-ice drills, skill sessions, and scrimmages with Oilers draft picks and invitees. According to the players, the invitation was a recognition of their hard work and a step toward breaking barriers in the sport.
Significance of the invite
The Oilers development camp has historically been open to male prospects, but the inclusion of female players highlights a growing trend in the NHL to promote gender inclusivity. 'It's a cool opportunity to show what we can do and to learn from some of the best young players in the world,' said Primerano. Kraemer added that the experience was 'unreal' and that she hoped it would inspire other young girls to pursue hockey at the highest levels.
Impact on women's hockey
The camp invite comes as women's hockey continues to gain visibility and support from NHL teams. The Oilers have previously hosted female players at development camps, signaling a commitment to growing the game. The players noted that the training and feedback from Oilers coaches would help them improve their skills and potentially open doors for professional opportunities in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL).
