What significant report was released in 1972 that positively impacted women's hockey?

The Royal Commission on the Status of Women, released in 1972, is recognized as a groundbreaking document that had a profound effect on various aspects of women's rights and gender equality in Canada, including sports. This commission was established to investigate and address the systemic discrimination against women in various sectors, highlighting issues such as access to sports and physical activities.

The report's findings and recommendations led to increased awareness and advocacy for women's sports, ultimately contributing to greater support and resources for women's hockey. It played a crucial role in elevating the status of women's participation in sports by addressing barriers and promoting the importance of equal opportunities.

Other options, while relevant to women's sports, do not embody the same level of historical significance or direct influence on the advancement of women's hockey as the Royal Commission did. The National Women's Hockey Plan and the Female Athlete Handbook may focus on specific strategies or guidelines but lack the foundational impact of the royal commission's broad-reaching insights. The Women's Sports Equity Report, though important, emerged later and was more of a reaction to the work initiated by the royal commission.