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Hockey Alberta Foundation

Come Try Hockey Event Opens Doors to the Game in New Sarepta

A recent Come Try Hockey event hosted by the New Sarepta Minor Hockey Association helped bring new players of different ages and genders to become involved in the sport of hockey.

With support from the Hockey Alberta Foundation’s Every Kid Every Community Grant, the event welcomed 22 new players of various ages and genders, helping them step onto the ice, many for the first time. The grant funding covered equipment and ice time, making it easier for families to explore hockey without financial barriers.

“The participants enjoyed their time on the ice and left the arena with big smiles on their faces, excited for the opportunity to try hockey for the first time,” said Tanya Hamula, Secretary of New Sarepta Minor Hockey Association.

The event wasn’t just about learning the basics of skating or stickhandling — it was about building community, confidence, and inclusivity.

“The Come Try Hockey event has had a transformative impact on our community, opening doors to new experiences and fostering inclusivity,” said Jeremy Klarenback, President of New Sarepta Minor Hockey Association. “Through this event, we create a space where everyone can feel empowered to try something new and be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Young participants were quick to express their enthusiasm. “I LOVE HOCKEY!” one exclaimed, while another proudly shared, “I am going to be a hockey player next season!”

Initiatives like this highlight the power of local programs to grow the game from the grassroots level up. Through the Every Kid Every Community grant, more communities across Alberta can provide similar opportunities to introduce children and families to hockey in an accessible, welcoming way.

Hockey Alberta Foundation

Honouring Lisa "Longball" Vlooswyk and Kent Smith for Five Years of Service with the Hockey Alberta Foundation

Lisa "Longball" Vlooswyk

When Lisa first joined the Hockey Alberta Foundation board in 2020, she admits she didn’t fully know what she was stepping into.

“I wasn’t really familiar with what they did,” she said. “But hockey has been such a gift in our family’s life. I have a child who played minor hockey, and I wanted to make sure that no child in Alberta would miss that opportunity just because their family couldn’t afford it.”

Lisa, who jokes that she might be the only board member who can’t skate backwards, quickly found her passion and purpose through the Foundation’s Every Kid Every Community grant program. “That idea really resonated with me. I volunteer my time so that every family in Alberta can experience what my family had, regardless of their financial situation.”

One of her most powerful memories came during a visit to Sport Bank, one of the grant recipients. “I was there to do a cheque presentation, and there were children picking up equipment. When you see their eyes light up because they just got a new hockey helmet or their first pair of skates, that’s our why. That’s why we do this.”

Reflecting on that moment, Lisa adds, “To see the money and hard work we put in actually impact a child’s life… it makes it all worth it.”

In her five years on the board, Lisa has been a passionate advocate for access, inclusion, and ensuring every child gets a chance to fall in love with hockey, no matter their background. Her leadership and commitment continue to help grow the game across Alberta, one child at a time.

Kent Smith

Kent’s journey with the Hockey Alberta Foundation began five years ago, right in the middle of a global pandemic.

“It was a challenge,” he recalled. “Board meetings, getting together, hockey not being played, it was a difficult time. But my passion for the game never wavered”.

With a strong belief in the power of sport, Kent joined the board to help make hockey more accessible. “Hockey is such a great sport, but it’s not a cheap one to play,” he said. “When I heard about the Every Kid Every Community program, I was all in. It’s about getting more kids involved in the game”.

For Kent, the mission runs deeper than just getting players on the ice. “Hockey helps develop leadership, discipline, and life skills,” he explained. “If kids don’t get the chance to play, they miss out on all of that.”

Over the past five years, Kent has played an important role in helping grow the Foundation’s impact. His contributions reflect his commitment to community, youth development, and the values at the heart of hockey in Alberta.

“It’s a great group of volunteers and a great organization. I’ve just tried to do my part to help.”

Thank you to Lisa and Kent for all their hard work they have done with the Hockey Alberta Foundation. Read more about the Hockey Alberta Foundation and the Every Kid Every Community Grant here. 

Hockey Alberta Foundation

John Kosolowski Honoured for 15 Years of Service with the Hockey Alberta Foundation

John Kosolowski has been a dedicated member of the Hockey Alberta Foundation Board for 15 years, and this year, he was recognized for his outstanding service and commitment to growing the game across the province.

Kosolowski’s journey in hockey began long before his time on the board. “Well, I coached for 25 years, and I’ve been involved with Hockey Alberta for 15 of those years with the coach development program and player development program,” he shared.

Before he joined the board, Kosolowski took a short break before getting a call from Scott Robinson.

“Scott said, ‘We did it! We created the foundation. Do you want to be on the board?’ I accepted, and I’ve been here ever since. I was the youngest around the table at the time now I’m the second oldest,” he said.

As a lawyer whose practice includes governance, Kosolowski found a meaningful way to contribute. “This is right up my alley. The board has grown in so many different ways, not just in where we all came from, but in our talents. That’s probably been the biggest reason for the foundation’s success.”

One initiative that stands out for Kosolowski is the Every Kid Every Community program. “I went to a hockey summit in Banff and had a conversation with Ken Dryden. We talked about what really makes Canadians feel like they’re part of the country is hockey.” he said. “Wouldn’t it be great if we made that opportunity available to kids who are brand new [to the community]? That’s where Every Kid Every Community really rang a bell for me.”

He also recognized the importance of this program in fundraising. “When I first started on the board, this wasn’t even an idea. But I said, ‘If you want to raise money, you have to do something tied to kids.’ People donate for kids. That’s always been a key part of why I support Every Kid Every Community so strongly.”

From supporting youth to strengthening community through the game, John Kosolowski’s dedication continues to make a lasting impact on hockey in Alberta. His contributions, past and present, help ensure that more kids have the chance to fall in love with hockey.

Read more about the Hockey Alberta Foundation and the Every Kid Every Community Grant here.

News

Hockey Alberta 2024-2025 Season Review

RED DEER – The 2024-25 hockey season was filled with unforgettable moments and inspiring stories. Across Alberta, athletes, coaches, membership, officials, volunteers, and teams came together to showcase the very best of our game, both on and off the ice.

As part of this year’s Year in Review, Hockey Alberta is proud to spotlight some of the standout moments that captured the true spirit of the sport. These moments go beyond wins and championships they reflect leadership, resilience, and the powerful impact hockey has in our communities. From grassroots initiatives to provincial milestones, the stories featured this year showcase how the game continues to unite, inspire, and grow throughout Alberta.

YEAR IN REVIEW >

News

Western Canadian Junior Hockey pilot to expand

CALGARY – Hockey Canada has announced that after a successful first season, the Western Canadian Development Model (WCDM) pilot project will expand its scope for the 2025-26 season, with an emphasis on roster composition.

Announced in July 2024, the WCDM pilot project is a joint initiative between Hockey Canada’s four Western Members, their respective Junior A hockey leagues and the Western Hockey League (WHL) that prioritizes athlete development on and off the ice through four key pillars:

  • Player advancement
  • Roster composition
  • Standard of play and rules
  • Alignment and messaging

The initial season of the pilot project introduced eight changes to junior hockey in Western Canada, including increased flexibility in the development pathway for 15- and 16-year olds, the choice to wear half-face protection for players 18 years of age or older and streamlined playing rules between Junior A leagues and the WHL.

“Throughout the WCDM pilot project, the four Western Members and six junior leagues have demonstrated a tremendous commitment to bringing forward innovative and creative solutions to enhance the delivery of hockey in Western Canada for players and their families,” said Katherine Henderson, president and chief executive officer of Hockey Canada. “The expansion of the pilot will ensure that our system continues to evolve to meet the needs of our participants, prioritizes their safety on and off the ice and produces high-quality junior hockey throughout Western Canada for years to come.”

Next season, five additional changes will be implemented as part of the pilot:

  • Western Junior A teams will be permitted to register up to five U.S.-born players at one time on their active roster, a decrease from the previous six.
  • 16- and 17-year-old U.S.-born players who have been drafted, listed or signed by a WHL team will be eligible to be rostered by any Western Junior A team.
  • Each Western Junior A team will be eligible to roster one 16- or 17-year-old player whose parent(s) reside(s) outside of their province or region, if the player has been drafted, listed or signed by a WHL team.
  • Up to a maximum of 23 such players across all Western Junior A teams, or one player from each WHL team.
  • Out-of-province players who participate in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) will be eligible to affiliate with Western Junior A teams in their school’s respective province or region.
  • No more than eight players born in a province not participating in the WCDM may be registered on the active roster of a Western Junior A team.

Data from the WCDM pilot project will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis, with the expectation that additional changes will be introduced in future seasons.

News

Hockey Alberta Officials Attend the 2025 WHL Officiating Exposure Camp

CALGARY - This year, Hockey Alberta was well represented with 26 officials invited to participate in the 2025 WHL High Performance Officiating Exposure Camp that took place from June 13-15

The annual event, hosted in Calgary, is designed to help identify and develop top officiating talent. It provides a unique opportunity for officials to showcase their skills and abilities in hopes of earning a future spot with the WHL Officiating Team.

Justin Scott, one of the officials, reflected on the experience, “[I had] an incredible experience at the WHL HP Officiating Exposure Camp, networking with talented delegates, receiving elite coaching, and leveling up both on the ice and in the classroom. Grateful for the growth, the experience, and opportunity to advance in my career as an official”.

More than just a skills clinic, the WHL Officiating Exposure Camp offers an in-depth look at what it takes to officiate at the WHL level. Attendees were challenged both on and off the ice, gaining valuable experience in a high-performance environment alongside their elite peers.

“The weekend was such a great experience and gave me the opportunity to compete with and support officials from around the world. It was amazing to hear and learn from some of the best officials in both the WHL and the NHL during the camp,” said Morgan McCullough.

Graham Gagne also shared his perspective on what made the camp stand out, “I think the part that stood out the most about the camp is that guys like Rehman and Schlenker are truly out there to make you better and are essentially training you to take their jobs. It’s just really cool to see, especially it being such a competitive industry.”

Camp Highlights Included:

  • WHL Officiating expectations
  • Knowledge of the WHL Officiating opportunities
  • On-ice & off-ice skill development
  • Designed to push you mentally and physically
  • High caliber of competition among peers
  • Develop the skills required to further your officiating career

Liam MacIsaac, Manager of Officiating at Hockey Alberta, emphasized the importance of the event. “The Western Hockey League High Performance Officiating Exposure Camp is a unique opportunity for our officials to elevate their skills with direct instruction from NHL officials, network with officials who share the same goals, as well as market themselves as potential officiating prospects to the Western Hockey League and other professional leagues in attendance. We’re incredibly proud of the officials who represented Hockey Alberta with professionalism and passion this past weekend”.

Interested in Officiating?

Hockey Alberta offers officiating programs across the province. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to move to the next level, officiating provides a unique way to stay involved in the game and contribute to the sport in a meaningful way.

LEARN MORE >

News

Did You Know There’s More Than One Way to Get Your Child Into Hockey?

When most people think of hockey, they picture early morning practices, weekend tournaments, and a full winter calendar. But did you know that there’s more than one way to play the game?

The Play Hockey Model contains three streams - Learn to Play, Pond Hockey, and Rec Hockey. These streams ensure families have access to affordable, fun, and safe opportunities to participate in youth hockey with a moderate to low time and financial commitment.

The Learn to Play model is designed for ages 5-8 and introduces the basic skills of the game and provides an opportunity for players to learn those skills and the game.

The Pond Hockey model is an unstructured hockey option with limited to no use of the Hockey Canada playing rules with a focus on fun and development and can be enjoyed regardless of skill set.

The Rec Hockey model is a moderately structured level of hockey with somewhat modified playing rules and regulations and provides a more competitive structure than Pond Hockey but without as much commitment than a Minor Hockey program.

Regardless of the program stream, Hockey Alberta encourages good sportsmanship, fun, fair play, friendship, and respect. This guide outlines the streams, their season structure and game play, and operational information for Organizations and MHAs to guide the implementation of activity options in the Play Hockey Model within their communities.

Key Outcomes for all Streams

  • Provide families different options to play the game.
  • Provide a positive experience for all players.
  • Provide a welcoming, safe and active environment for youth.
  • Instill a sense of community and camaraderie among teammates.
  • Allow youth to learn teamwork skills through sport.
  • Instill fair play and sportsmanship among players, coaches, parents, officials, and spectators.
  • Provide leadership opportunities through sport.
  • Develop hockey skills (skating, passing shooting) and passion for the game - HOCKEY FOR LIFE.

Financial Assistance

Why register with a Hockey Alberta Program?

By registering with an association within Hockey Alberta you can be sure that your child will be led by certified coaches, who must take courses before they can be on the bench. All volunteers must undergo a criminal record check.

Is Hockey Safe?

Yes, players are required to wear full protective gear whenever they are on the ice. Equipment is specifically designed to keep your player safe.

PLAY HOCKEY MODEL >

MINOR HOCKEY >

News

RFP issued for Hockey Alberta vehicles

Hockey Alberta is seeking proposals for the services of two leased/ long term rental vehicles. As part of this agreement, Hockey Alberta views this as a sponsorship opportunity to become the official vehicle supplier for Hockey Alberta.

Deadline for submission of proposals is Friday, June 20.

The full RFP document can be viewed below.

Hockey Alberta Vehicle RFP >

News

NHL/NHLPA First Shift

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift Program for the 2025-26 season is now open.

REGISTER >

Designed to help your child fall in love with hockey before you buy all the gear, our six-week learn to play program focuses on having fun while learning basic skills. Equipment is included with registration, which is only $299.

New-to-Hockey families can register online by following these simple steps:

  • STEP 1 : Program administrator must ensure that all event details are up to date on portal - participants will automatically receive information when registering.
  • STEP 2 : Locate the nearest program on www.firstshift.ca
  • STEP 3 : Register child. MUST be between the ages 6-10 years old (born between (January 1, 2015 and May 1, 2020) and has never previously been registered in minor hockey (not in HCR)
  • STEP 4 : Program administrator receives notification of new registration -
  • Program Administrator must verify the name against the HCR.

The NHL/NHLPA First Shift program is designed to ensure a positive experience for new-to-hockey families. We want families to experience the game at its best — to understand why so many Canadians feel an inherent love for the sport — and to stimulate a desire for continued participation. We want to take away any intimidation as it relates to equipment requirements, and/or rules of the game, remove potential safety concerns and, most importantly, provide an experience that is memorable and fun.


THE NHL/NHLPA FIRST SHIFT MAKES HOCKEY:

  • Affordable
  • Manageable (time commitment)
  • Safe
  • Fun!


PROGRAM CAPACITY:

  • Program A Maximum Capacity: 45 participants, 10 on-ice instructors
  • Program B Maximum Capacity: 30 participants, seven on-ice instructors


PROGRAM PARAMETERS:

  • Open to all children (unless otherwise specified an all-female program)
  • 6-10 years of age
  • Never previously registered in minor hockey – Hockey Canada Registry (HCR)
    • Host local hockey associations are responsible for verifying the names of their registrants against the HCR – and with neighboring local hockey associations if need be.


PARTICIPANT REGISTRATION FEE OF $299 INCLUDES:

  • BAUER equipment (head-to-toe)
  • Welcome Event
  • Equipment fit demonstration
  • Expert fit session and equipment collection
  • On-ice experience
  • Six weeks, one session/week, one hour on a consistent day and time
  • Focus on fun

Ice Times Newsletter

News

FIVE - The Five Albertans on the Oilers 2024-25 Roster

There’s something special happening in Oil Country this year and it runs deeper than the playoff buzz sweeping through Rogers Place. With five Albertans on the Edmonton Oilers’ 2024-25 roster, the connection between this team and our province is undeniable:

Stuart Skinner - SSAC Lions U15 AAA, SSAC Athletics U18 AAA

Brett Kulak - Stony Plain Predators U15 AA, PAC Timberwolves U15 AAA, PAC Saints U16 AAA, St. Albert Raiders U18 AAA

James Hamblin - SSAC Lions U15 AAA, SSAC Athletics U18 AAA

Noah Philp - Bow Valley Timberwolves U15 AA, Airdrie Xtreme U15 AAA, AC Avalanche U16 AAA, Canmore Eagles, University of Alberta

Matt Savoie - St. Albert Sabres U15 AAA, Northern Alberta Xtreme Prep, Team Alberta (Alberta Cup)

These players are proud products of our local communities, minor hockey associations, and Hockey Alberta programming. From early mornings at hometown rinks to representing their province in elite competitions, each of them followed a unique hockey pathway to the NHL.

This year, the Oilers found a powerful and personal way to honour those roots. To kick off the 2025 Stanley Cup Final, the team resurfaced Rogers Place ice with shavings from each player’s hometown rink, bringing pieces of their hockey beginnings to the biggest stage in the sport.

For Stuart Skinner, that meant seeing ice from Edmonton’s Confederation Arena.

It’s a home ice advantage taken to the next level, one rooted in community, development, and pride. From minor hockey teams to provincial showcases, Alberta’s fingerprints are leaving a mark on this year’s Oilers team.

As the Stanley Cup Final unfolds, Alberta isn’t just cheering from the sidelines. We’re in the game, in the players, in the programs, and even in the ice itself.

This isn’t just the Oilers’ run.

This is Alberta’s moment.

News

Ready to Play Hockey? Here’s Everything You Need to Know to Register for Hockey in Alberta!

Whether you’re new to the sport, recently moved, or simply looking to get your child into hockey, Hockey Alberta is here to help you hit the ice this season. With registration dates already open across the province, now is the perfect time to find your local Minor Hockey Association (MHA) and get started.

Check your local registration dates here

New to Hockey? We’ve Got You Covered

If your family is just beginning its hockey journey—whether you’re a newcomer to Canada, new to Alberta, or moving to a new community—our resources make it easy to navigate the registration process.

Learn about Minor Hockey and how to get started
Explore our Intro to Hockey program

Check out our resources for New Hockey Parents

Check out options for funding here

Looking For Another Option from Minor Hockey? Check Out Play Hockey

Hockey Alberta’s Play Hockey Model was designed to provide families with clear options that meet a variety of skill levels, schedules, and interests, while prioritizing fun, development, and respect.

The streams include:

  • Rec Hockey
  • Pond Hockey
  • Learn to Play

These programs focus on making hockey more accessible, inclusive, and flexible for Alberta families.

Discover the Play Hockey Model here

Don’t Wait – Register Today!

Whether your child dreams of wearing the team jersey or is just looking to try something new, hockey is a great way to stay active, build friendships, and be part of a community.

Contact your local MHA to register and join the game. The season is just around the corner—let’s make it the best one yet.

News

Hockey Alberta now accepting Volunteer Applications

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta is now accepting applications for key volunteer positions on the Operational Committees for the 2025-26 hockey season.

Currently, applications are being sought from interested individuals to fill volunteer roles for positions and committees including: Appeals Committee, AFHL Governor, EDI Committee, Girls Hockey Ambassador, Maltreatment Investigator, MHA Liaison, Minor Discipline Coordinator, Minor Leagues, Officiating, Player Movement Review Committee, Player Safety Committee, Senior/Junior Hockey and U11 AA.

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM >

Volunteers are the faces of Hockey Alberta within their communities and are positively representing themselves and the organization while communicating with and assisting participants on a daily basis.

Each year, hundreds of volunteers play integral roles in ensuring that Hockey Alberta delivers high quality and efficient programming as well as services to the more than 100,000 participants across the province.

All Hockey Alberta volunteers must act in accordance with the Vision, Mission and Core Values of Hockey Alberta. Hockey Alberta’s Core Values are:

  • Integrity – do the right thing for the right reasons.
  • Community – make a difference for all Albertans.
  • Collaboration – work together to win together.
  • Innovation – be curious, courageous, and creative.
  • Passion – fuels our why, drives our what.