PWHL names Saroya Tinker manager of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives & community engagement

The newest professional hockey league has tabbed a former player to help run its DEI initiative.

On Wednesday, the Professional Women’s Hockey League announced that Saroya Tinker will be the manager of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, as well community engagement.

“Saroya already has had a positive impact on the hockey community at large, and she will be an integral part of our team,” PWHL Senior Vice President of Business Operations, Amy Scheer, said in a release. “We cannot overstate the importance of proactively creating an environment in which diverse voices are heard and celebrated, and we know Saroya will play a vital role in support of that essential initiative while continuing as a leader in our sport, and our league, moving forward.”

Tinker is the executive director of Black Girl Hockey Club Canada, a role she has held since graduating from Yale University in 2020. After four years with the Bulldogs, the Oshawa native played three seasons in the Premier Hockey Federation (formerly the National Women’s Hockey League), making stops with the Metropolitan Riveters and Toronto Six, winning the Isobel Cup with the Six last spring.

She retired from pro hockey in November of last year.

“I am proud to be working for a league that has been revolutionary in every respect,” stated Tinker. “Our goal is to be the most progressive sports league in the world, and I cannot wait to contribute. I have been an advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion throughout my entire life, hockey playing career, and as the Executive Director of Black Girl Hockey Club Canada. I take pride in the change I have empowered, and the work I have done so far.”

According to the release, Tinker will continue to also be an analyst for CBC, TSN and Sportsnet, covering both the league and other various hockey events.