Former Cougar Emma Bergesen signs with PWHL’s Ottawa Charge

Former Mount Royal University Cougars standout Emma Bergesen is headed back to Canada, this time, as a professional.

On June 21, the Ottawa Charge announced the signing of Bergesen to a Standard Player Agreement for the 2025–26 Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) season. The 25-year-old from Stavanger, Norway becomes the first Norwegian player in PWHL history.

Bergesen starred at MRU from 2019, establishing herself as one of the top defenders in U SPORTS. She earned All-Canadian honors and was named the Canada West Defenseman of the Year during her time with the Cougars. Known for her poise, passing, and leadership, she anchored Mount Royal's blue line and helped the program reach new heights.

Following graduation in 2024, Bergesen spent the 2024–25 season in Sweden with SDE HF, collecting 19 points (3 goals, 16 assists) over 33 games in the SDHL, Sweden's top women's league. At 5-foot-8 and a left-handed shot, she continued to show the same offensive instincts and composed play that made her a standout at the university level.

"I've had a hard time calming down since getting this contract to play in the PWHL," Bergesen said. "It was a huge goal of mine to play in this league once it got started."

Ottawa general manager Mike Hirshfeld praised the addition of Bergesen, calling her a puck-moving defender with strong offensive instincts.

"Her hockey sense and vision are excellent," Hirshfeld said. "We truly like her potential."

Bergesen's experience is international in every sense. She's represented Norway at the senior level in various IIHF tournaments and continues to be a mainstay on the national team. Her time in both North American and European systems has shaped her into a versatile two-way defender, capable of playing in all situations.

She's also remembered at MRU for her knack for stepping up in big moments, including an overtime game-winner during the Cougars' run to a national championship.

Now, she joins an Ottawa squad aiming to contend in the PWHL's third season, and adds a new international flavor to the roster.

For Bergesen, the move marks the next step in a journey defined by excellence, leadership, and history-making milestones. From Cougar blue to PWHL red, the Norwegian trailblazer is ready for her next challenge.