Hockey Alberta Announces Inaugural She Leads Hockey Showcase

Hockey Alberta is hosting female-only coach clinics in Calgary for the 2026-27 season.

There are three clinics available for the season, all starting at 7 pm at Max Bell Arena. The clinics include Coach 1, Coach 2 and Intro to Principles of Checking.

COACH 1 - OCTOBER 26 >

COACH 2 – NOVEMBER 2 >

PRINCIPLES OF CHECKING - NOVEMBER 9 >

Female-only coach clinics provide an inclusive environment to all female coaches to learn the game and receive the necessary clinic certification.

For questions and information on the upcoming clinics, please email Danielle Wheeler, Manager, Female Development.

BE PART OF CANADA’S HOLIDAY HOCKEY TRADITION

CHOOSE YOUR WORLD JUNIORS GAMES NOW

Individual tickets for the 2027 IIHF World Junior Championship are now on sale.

From Team Canada’s preliminary-round games in Edmonton to some of the greatest rivalries in international hockey in Red Deer, this is your chance to experience the World Juniors live in Alberta.

Demand is high: more than 85,000 fans entered the Priority Draw and more than 18,000 ticket packages have already been sold. Choose your games today. Individual tickets start at $40, plus applicable fees, with availability varying by game and seat location.

GET EDMONTON TICKETS >

GET RED DEER TICKETS >

VIEW THE SCHEDULE >

Hockey Alberta is inviting female coaches across the province to join the Female Coach Development Network. This network creates a supportive space designed to connect, develop, and empower women in coaching.

“We want to create a space where female coaches can connect with one another, share their experiences and know that they have a community behind them. Coaching can be incredibly rewarding, and having the opportunity to learn from other women who have been through different stages of their coaching journey can make a meaningful difference” said Danielle Wheeler, Manager Female Development, Hockey Alberta.

The Female Coach Development Network is open to female coaches at all stages of their coaching journey. Whether someone is stepping behind the bench for the first time or looking to continue developing their skills and leadership, the network provides an opportunity to build relationships with other women who share a passion for coaching and growing the game.

If you are interested in being part of the Female Coach Development Network, please complete the registration form here:

Female Coach Development Network Registration

Project AB is a five-part YouTube docuseries following the journey of Team Alberta’s male and female hockey programs — from summer selection camp to the Canada Winter Games. The series goes behind the scenes with the players, coaches and staff who make Team Alberta possible, capturing the pressure, sacrifice, preparation, and pride that comes with representing the province.

Along the way, Project AB explores the Hockey Alberta pathway, the communities and leagues that develop these athletes, and the journey from aspiring player to Team Alberta representative.

Episode 1 — “Pressure is Privilege”

The journey begins at Summer Camp, where Alberta’s top male and female players come together with one goal: earn the opportunity to represent their province. With roster spots on the line, “Pressure is Privilege” captures the intensity, emotion, uncertainty, and determination of the selection process — giving viewers an inside look at where the Team Alberta journey begins.

Check out the September 2026 Edition of the Ice Times Newsletter.

Included this month:

• 5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Hockey Season
• Project AB
• 2026 Official Clinic Schedules
  AND MORE!

ICE TIMES NEWSLETTER >

September is Concussion Awareness Month, an important reminder of the role we all play in recognizing, responding to, and reducing the impact of concussions in hockey.

As part of registration each season, players, coaches, and officials are required to acknowledge Hockey Canada’s concussion waivers and complete the mandatory concussion awareness learning. These requirements help ensure everyone entering the season has a shared understanding of concussion safety.

Concussion awareness goes beyond completing a requirement. Knowing how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a suspected concussion, taking them seriously, and understanding what to do next helps create safer hockey environments. When in doubt, remove the participant from play and follow the appropriate assessment and return-to-sport process.

Take a few minutes to refresh your concussion knowledge:

https://youtu.be/D2DOk8RUNuE

access concussion information and resources at sportmedab.ca/aca .

Hockey Alberta’s 2026 Officials Summer School kicked off in Edmonton on August 8–9, bringing together 30 officials for two days focused on development, learning, and preparation for the upcoming season.

Designed for officials looking to expand their skills and continue progressing through the Hockey Alberta Officials Development Pathway, the camp provided a unique opportunity to learn from experienced instructors and connect with fellow officials from across Alberta.

“This camp continues to be in high demand and this year we had around 200 officials apply for a spot. What’s really exciting is that we’re seeing officials come back year after year because they continue to find value in the experience. Every year, there’s something new to learn, whether that’s from our instructors, the other officials in the room or the on-ice sessions. We want officials to leave the camp feeling like they’ve developed their skills, challenged themselves, and have new goals to work toward for the upcoming season.” Said Liam MacIsaac, Hockey Alberta’s Manager of Officiating.

A special thank you to Dylan Leaney, Camp Coordinator, and instructors Jacob Hicks, Jesse Wood-Schatz, and Brandon Peterson for helping make the camp a success. Their experience officiating at the elite levels of hockey, including the AJHL, WHL and AHL, provided participants with a valuable opportunity to learn from officials who have experience navigating the next levels of the officiating pathway. Their insight, knowledge, and experience gave officials a better understanding of what it takes to continue developing and advancing in their officiating careers.

Throughout the two day camp, officials took part in a combination of on ice and off ice sessions designed to challenge them both physically and mentally. The program included two on ice sessions, rules education, fitness training, interactive activities, and networking opportunities.

Officiating requires more than knowing the rules and making calls on the ice. Officials become strong communicators, confident decision makers, and effective leaders. The camp provided participants with opportunities to work on each of these areas while learning how to manage the physical and mental demands of officiating.

“To experience this camp for a third year, I’m really excited. I’ve been so happy with how much it has helped my development over the past two seasons. It takes what could be a typical clinic and turns it into something interactive and the camp itself is ran really well. I always leave the camp with a new feeling for the game and new goals to work toward for the upcoming season” Cash Bowers, Hockey Alberta Official.

As an added benefit, participation in the Officials Summer School also counts as an official’s clinic registration for the 2026–27 season, allowing participants to combine their development and certification requirements into one experience.

Following the successful Edmonton camp, Hockey Alberta is excited to bring the Officials Summer School to Calgary on August 22–23 at the Flames Community Arena. We can’t wait to welcome 30 officials to Calgary on August 22–23 for another weekend of learning, development, and connection as we prepare for the 2026–27 season.

Hockey Alberta official and Summer School camp attendee Mystery Shaw shared advice for new officials, “for brand new officials, it might be a little scary the first couple of times, but just keep going. You learn so much more about the game than you do just playing or coaching. You also meet so many great people along the way, and there are some really cool opportunities that can come from officiating.”

Interested in becoming a hockey official? Check out an officials clinic near you and take the first step toward getting involved. https://officials.hockeyalberta.ca/register/clinics/

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta is one step closer to naming the roster for Team Alberta’s Under-18 Female team that is representing the province at the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City in February.

Twenty-eight athletes are in contention to make the final roster, with three goaltenders, 10 defence, and 15 forwards included on the fall camp roster, running from September 24-28 in Red Deer.

TEAM ALBERTA UNDER-18 FEMALE FALL CAMP >

Athletes were selected to the shortlist based on their overall play throughout the Team Alberta scouting process, past Team Alberta programs, and at the Under-18 Summer Camp in Red Deer in July. Forty-six players were invited to Red Deer and worked through multiple on-ice sessions, as well as off-ice training and classroom sessions.

The players attending the fall camp are scheduled to play three games against U Sports squads, playing the University of Alberta Pandas twice and the MacEwan University Griffins once.

Hockey Alberta previously announced the coaching staff for the U18 Female squad in February, with head coach Craig Perrett, assistant coaches Erin O’Toole and Izzy Cropper, and goalie coach Jamond Cardinal running the bench at the Canada Winter Games.

Team Alberta Female are attending the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City from March 8-14, 2027.

Team Alberta is set to play preliminary games in their pool against Team British Columbia, Team New Brunswick and Team Quebec. The upcoming Canada Winter Games hockey schedule can be found here.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta celebrated outstanding service, leadership and dedication to the game on Saturday during the 2026 Hockey Alberta Membership Awards presented by ATB and Life Member Reception.

Held at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer, the annual celebration recognized volunteers, officials, coaches, administrators, associations and community leaders whose contributions continue to strengthen hockey across the province.

Life Member

A special highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of Hockey Alberta Life Membership to Len Samletzki, while also recognizing his years of service as a past Chair of the Hockey Alberta Board of Directors.

Len is a visionary leader whose service on the Hockey Alberta Board helped shape the organization’s modern era. He joined the Board in 2010, and played a key role in securing Hockey Alberta’s partnership with Red Deer College (now Red Deer Polytechnic) and later guided the organization through governance reform, increased accountability and the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19. As Chair of the Board from 2019 to 2025, his steady leadership, commitment to positive change and passion for preserving Hockey Alberta’s history left a lasting legacy across the province.

Life Membership is the highest honour Hockey Alberta can bestow and is reserved for individuals whose lifetime of service, leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on the game throughout Alberta.

WATCH LEN’S LIFE MEMBERSHIP TRIBUTE >

2026 Hockey Alberta Membership Awards

Also recognized during Saturday’s ceremony were the recipients of the 2026 Hockey Alberta Membership Awards, honouring excellence across the Hockey Alberta membership.

Order of Merit

• Ernie Boruk Award: Josh Smith (Lacombe)
• Dave Ganley Award: Dave MacPherson (Grande Prairie)
• Excellence in Administration: Daryl Pickering (Sylvan Lake)
• Excellence in Administration: James Parks (Calgary)
• Excellence in Development: Damon Jeffs (Peace River)

Official of the Year: Ben Solomon (Calgary)

Provincial Championships Host Site Award: Blackfalds Minor Hockey Association

Volunteer of the Year: Shannon Steil (Battle River)

Minor Hockey Association of the Year: New Sarepta Minor Hockey Association

Coach of the Year: Darcy Preece (KC South/Edmonton)

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients and honourees. Your passion, leadership and commitment continue to make hockey stronger in communities across Alberta while inspiring future generations to enjoy the game. Thank you for helping make hockey a sport for life.

From July 6–11, Hockey Alberta welcomed 25 coaches from across the province to Red Deer for the annual High Performance 1 (HP1) Coaching Seminar, providing an opportunity for coaches to continue their development and build the skills needed to lead athletes at the highest levels of hockey.

Coaches are selected through a competitive application process and must meet specific coaching experience requirements, with participants primarily coaching at the U15 AAA, U18 AAA, Sport School, and Junior A levels.

What sets Hockey Alberta’s program apart is its hands on approach to coach education. As the only Hockey Canada Member Branch to deliver the High Performance 1 program in this format, participants receive classroom instruction before immediately applying those concepts on the ice during a simultaneous player development camp. Working alongside experienced mentors, coaches have the opportunity to put theory into practice in a real-time learning environment, receive immediate feedback, and refine their coaching techniques throughout the week.

This unique model bridges the gap between learning and application, giving coaches the confidence and practical experience needed to lead high performance athletes while continuing their journey toward High Performance 1 certification.

Following the in person seminar, coaches will continue working through the certification process, completing post task evaluations and additional requirements. Once certified, coaches will have the qualifications needed to coach at the AAA and Accredited Schools levels.

“The development of coaches is one of the most important parts of growing the game,” said

Stephen Pattison Hockey Alberta’s Manager, Coach Development “by investing in coaching education, we are creating better experiences for players and building stronger hockey communities across Alberta”.

Hockey Alberta’s commitment to coach development ensures that players across the province have access to knowledgeable, passionate, and prepared coaches who are focused on creating positive experiences both on and off the ice.

“High Performance 1 challenged me to think beyond systems and drills. It reinforced that great coaching is about intentionally developing people. The biggest takeaway for me was the importance of creating environments where athletes feel challenged, supported, and empowered to grow. I’m leaving the seminar with new ideas, stronger connections, and an even greater commitment to helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the ice” expressed Shayla Katrick HP1 participant.

Through programs like the High Performance 1 Seminar, Hockey Alberta continues to invest in the people who make hockey possible and support the continued growth of the game across Alberta.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta is one step closer to naming the roster for Team Alberta’s Under-16 Male team that is representing the province at the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City in February.

Thirty-four athletes are in contention to make the final roster, with five goaltenders, 12 defence, and 17 forwards included on the shortlist.

TEAM ALBERTA UNDER-16 MALE SHORTLIST >

Athletes were selected to the shortlist based on their overall play throughout the Team Alberta scouting process, past Team Alberta programs, and at the Under-16 Summer Camp in Red Deer at the beginning of July. Eighty players were invited to Red Deer and worked through high intensity on-ice sessions, as well as off-ice training and classroom sessions.

Hockey Alberta previously announced the coaching staff for the U16 Male squad in February, with head coach James Poole, assistant coaches Ryan Allen and Jack Redlick, video coach Justin Ostertag and goalie coach Theo Zubot running the bench at the Canada Winter Games.

The U16 Male Program is the third stage of the development and identification process to select a roster for Team Alberta to compete at the 2027 Canada Winter Games, beginning with the Alberta Cup. Team Alberta Male are attending the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City from February 27 to March 6, 2027.

Team Alberta is set to play preliminary games in their pool against Team British Columbia, Team New Brunswick and Team Ontario. The upcoming Canada Winter Games hockey schedule can be found here.

BUFFALO, N.Y – 10 players from across the province heard their names called at the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, New York on June 26-27.

Daxon Rudolph (Lacombe) became the first Albertan and first defenceman taken at the draft, selected at fourth overall by the Buffalo Sabres during the first round, becoming the first Hockey Alberta trained player to be selected in the top five of the draft since Jake Sanderson in 2020. Keaton Verhoeff (Fort Saskatchewan) did not have to wait much longer to hear his name afterward, as the University of North Dakota defenceman was selected ninth overall by the San Jose Sharks, one of three picks that the Sharks made in the first round of the draft.

The full list of Albertans selected can be found below:

Registration is starting to open up around the province for the 2026-2027 hockey season.

Hockey Alberta provides a resource page for minor hockey registration to help you get started with registration, should you be a newcomer to the sport of hockey, a new resident of Alberta, or recently moved within Alberta to a new community.

MINOR HOCKEY >

Looking for information on registration dates? Visit your local MHA website directly, or visit the MHA Registration Dates page, updated by Hockey Alberta multiple times per week throughout the registration season, to views dates and more.

Interested in registering your child for the Play Hockey Model? You can read up on the model here for more information.

Hockey Alberta has announced the players attending the 2026 U17 Female Summer Development Camp, taking place from July 24-27 at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer.

This marks the second year of the U17 program following the transition from the former U16 camp model. In its inaugural year, the program saw strong success, with 17 athletes earning invitations to this year’s U18 Female Summer Camp. The camp continues to provide a high-performance development environment focused on preparing athletes for the next level of the female pathway.

CALGARY - 50 players from Alberta, participating in a Hockey Alberta/Hockey Canada sanctioned program, were selected over the course of two days at the 2026 WHL Draft.

Madden Daneault (Red Deer) was selected first overall by the Kelowna Rockets on day one of the 2026 WHL Draft. Daneault had a historic season in the Alberta Elite Hockey League, putting up a record point total of 149 points (65G-84A) during the 2025-2026 season and earning a silver medal at the U15AAA Provincial Championships with the Red Deer U15AAA Rebels. Daneault proceeded to have fantastic showing at the Alberta Cup, putting up 13 points (7G-6A) in six games for Team Alberta Black and earning an invite to the U16 Team Alberta Male Summer Camp.

Jevin Morrison (Sylvan Lake), also a member of the U15AAA Rebels, was selected fifth overall by the Wenatchee Wild. Wyatt Jolleys (Calgary - Seattle Thunderbirds), Micah Montgomery (Edmonton - Kamloops Blazers) and Fletcher MacDonald (Edmonton - Regina Pats) were picked consecutively, all landing in the top 10 of the draft. Brody Antignani (Calgary) was selected 12th by the Spokane Chiefs, and Artello Forestal (Edmonton) was selected 14th by the Lethbridge Hurricanes, leaving a total of seven players from Alberta selected in the first round.

Hockey Alberta congratulates all of their players on this milestone in their lives - to see the full list of players selected in the 2026 WHL Draft, click the button below.

2026 WHL DRAFT SELECTIONS >

The 2026 Hockey Alberta Spring Showcase presented by Direct Energy celebrates the future of the game, it also serves as an opportunity to honour a volunteer whose impact on hockey in our communities will be felt for years to come.

This year, we proudly recognize the legacy of Theodore “Ted” Hutchings.

Ted’s life was defined by dedication, leadership, and an unwavering passion for both education and hockey. Ted built his life in Red Deer alongside his wife, Lori, and their two sons, Connor and Jeffrey. Over the course of his career, he touched the lives of countless students as a teacher, administrator, and principal. Whether at Eastview, Glendale, Grandview, Delburne, Innisfail, or Penhold Crossing, Ted was known for his commitment to helping young people grow, succeed, and find their path.

Hockey, however, was always at the heart of Ted’s story.

From his early days with the Strathcona Warriors to competing in the WHL with the Portland Winterhawks and Lethbridge Hurricanes, Ted’s love for the game ran deep. He carried that passion forward into decades of coaching with Red Deer College, Red Deer Minor Hockey, and various hockey schools. He also gave his time generously as an off-ice official with the Red Deer Rebels and at Hockey Alberta events, always finding ways to stay connected to the game and give back.

Ted believed in the power of hockey to shape character, build community, and create lifelong memories.

“Ted meant so much to the hockey community and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Ted was someone who gave so much to hockey, but even more to his community. He had a way of making everyone feel valued and connected through the game. We will deeply miss having him at the Spring Showcase, but naming this space ‘Hutches House’ is such a fitting tribute to the passion, energy, and generosity he brought to the rink every single day” expressed Michelle Skilnick, Manager Events for Hockey Alberta.

To honour Ted’s enduring impact and love for the game, the volunteer room at the Hockey Alberta Spring Showcase will be named Hutch’s House, a tribute to a man who gave so much to hockey, his community, and the people around him. His legacy will continue to be felt in every staff and volunteer who shares in the spirit of the game he loved so deeply.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has announced the 46 athletes invited to the 2026 Team Alberta Female Under 18 Summer Camp.

Six goalies,16 defence and 24 forwards born in 2009 or later have been invited to attend the camp at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer. Players attending this camp are competing to earn a spot on Team Alberta U18 Female, who are attending the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City from March 8-14, 2027.

U18 FEMALE SUMMER CAMP - TOP 46 >

Hockey Alberta previously announced the coaching staff for the U18 Female squad in February, with head coach Craig Perrett leading the way on the bench alongside assistant coaches Erin O’Toole and Izzy Cropper, and goalie coach Jamond Cardinal.

Selections were determined based on the Team Alberta scouting process throughout the 2025-2026 season. From summer camp, players continue to be scouted with their club teams until the 20 player-roster is named.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has announced the 80 athletes invited to the 2026 Team Alberta Male Under-16 Summer Camp.

Eight goalies, 24 defence and 48 forwards born in 2011 have been invited to attend the camp scheduled for June 30 to July 4 at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer. Players attending this camp are competing to earn a spot on Team Alberta U16 Male, who are attending the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City from February 27 to March 6, 2027.

U16 MALE SUMMER CAMP - TOP 80 >

Hockey Alberta previously announced the coaching staff for the U16 Male squad in February, with head coach James Poole leading the way on the bench alongside assistant coaches Ryan Allen and Jack Redlick, video coach Justin Ostertag and goalie coach Theo Zubot.

Selections were determined based on the Team Alberta scouting process throughout the 2025-2026 season and the 2026 Alberta Cup. From summer camp, a short list of players for Team Alberta is set, and players continue to be scouted with their club teams until the 20 player-roster is named.

Volunteers are the heart of hockey in Alberta, and Janet Fleming is a perfect example of what it means to give back to the game.

Through years of dedication, Janet has become a familiar and valued presence within Hockey Alberta. This spring, she is once again stepping up in a big way, spending the next three weekends ensuring that every volunteer at the Hockey Alberta Spring Showcase presented by Direct Energy feels welcomed, fed, and taken care of.

From organizing meals to creating a space where volunteers can recharge, Janet works behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly. Her kindness, attention to detail, and commitment do not go unnoticed, and they play a huge role in creating a positive experience for everyone involved. She also prepares and cooks select meals on her own time to help keep our volunteers fed.

The volunteer room, proudly presented by United Cycle, is a lively hub of energy and appreciation, with Janet working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.

During the Alberta Cup, she also manages the scouts’ room keeping it fully stocked with snacks, tea, and coffee for over 150 scouts, ensuring everyone is taken care of and supported throughout the event.

“Janet’s dedication to our volunteers and to our volunteer program is unmatched. She ensures everyone is fed, cared for, and appreciated, and her impact on the experience we create here is truly invaluable. She is the first one here every morning and the last to leave,” says Holly McDavid, Coordinator, Operations and Volunteer Lead for the Spring Showcase.

She doesn’t only give her time for this event, Janet is always willing to lend a hand at any Hockey Alberta event. Hockey Alberta is incredibly grateful for Janet, and for the many volunteers like her who continue to give their time, energy, and heart to the game.

We’re excited to welcome players, families, fans, officials, coaches, volunteers, partners, and scouts to the 2026 Spring Showcase presented by Direct Energy at the Gary W. Harris Centre in Red Deer from April 23 to May 10.

What events make up Spring Showcase?

The Spring Showcase presented by Direct Energy features the Alberta Cup, Alberta Challenge, and Prospects Cup. Each event has a different focus:

• The Alberta Cup is a U15 male development program that gives players, coaches, and officials the opportunity to grow and develop their skills. It also gives scouts a platform to identify potential Team Alberta players.
• The Alberta Challenge a similar format, but specifically for the development of female players, coaches, and officials’ skills.
• The Prospects Cup is U13 development and identification program used to help prepare these young athletes for the Alberta Cup and Challenge.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your experience.

Admission

Please note Alberta Cup is a ticketed event. See pricing below:

• Day Pass: $15 (+ tax)
• 4-Day Tournament Pass: $40

The Alberta Challenge and Prospects Cup are free to attend.

AB Cup tickets: https://www.abcup.ca/tickets

Parking

Plenty of parking is available at Gary W. Harris Centre. Please ensure parking is paid for upon arrival so you don’t miss any of the action or receive a ticket. See parking schedule below:
Paid Parking in effect Monday- Friday | 8 am - 4 pm

We kindly ask spectators to avoid tailgating in parking lots so we can keep the celebration inside the arena.

Seating

Seating is general admission and available on a first-come, first-served basis. With a capacity of approximately 1,100, we encourage guests to arrive early if you wish to sit together.

Schedule

Full schedules for all three events are available on the Hockey Alberta website.

Alberta Cup Schedule > https://www.abcup.ca/stats/schedule

Alberta Challenge Schedule > https://www.abchallenge.ca/stats/schedule

Alberta Prospects Cup Schedule > https://www.prospectscup.ca/stats/schedule

Bring Your Energy

Friends, family, and fans are encouraged to pack the stands and cheer loudly. Your support helps create an unforgettable experience for athletes, coaches, and officials—let’s keep the environment positive, respectful, and full of energy!

Livestream

All games will be streamed live on FloHockey. Please note there is no play-by-play commentary, and a subscription is required.

FLOHOCKEY: https://www.flohockey.tv/signup

Merchandise

Visit the Hockey Alberta kiosk for branded, giveaways, and more. Spring Showcase-specific merchandise is also available through TBS.

Rep your colours and show your pride throughout the weekend!

Alberta Cup > https://abcup2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/?utm_campaign=feed&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=later-linkinbio

Alberta Challenge > https://abchallenge26.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Alberta Prospects Cup > https://prospectscup26.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Programs & Photos

Commemorate the event with official programs featuring stories, rosters, and photos from each of the three tournaments available on the respective event page.

Professional photography will also be available for purchase after the event. A link will be sent following the showcase. There will also be QR codes around the venue.

Around the Arena

Spectators are asked to remain upstairs and away from player dressing room areas. Be sure to stop by the Hockey Alberta kiosk while you’re here!

If you need a break, Red Deer Polytechnic offers great walking paths, outdoor spaces, and nearby amenities just steps from the arena, perfect for fresh air between games. Concessions will be open at select times during the event.

The 2026 Hockey Alberta U15 AA Provincial Championships in Camrose brought together elite competition, powerful moments, and a community fully united behind the game. From emotional ceremonies to packed stands filled with young fans, the U15AA Provincial Championships held March 19–22 captured everything that makes hockey in Alberta so special.

The opening ceremonies set the tone for what would become an unforgettable weekend. A particularly powerful moment came when U11 AA player John Martin stepped forward to read the players’ pledge. Just months earlier, John and his father had been involved in a car accident while travelling to a game. As his story was shared with the crowd, it became a powerful moment of reflection. There was a shared sense of gratitude knowing that John and his dad are on the road to recovery.

Another unforgettable moment came during the honorary puck drop. In a powerful show of support, the team had shaved their heads for teammate Tyson Hogman’s brother, Carter, who is currently battling cancer. As Carter stepped onto the ice to drop the puck for his brother, there wasn’t a dry eye in the arena.

The emotion only grew moments later. Just 29 seconds into the game, Tyson found the back of the net and immediately skated to the glass to celebrate with Carter. It was a moment that transcended the game itself, one that perfectly captured the heart of hockey and the strength of family.

Beyond the opening ceremonies, one of the most impactful initiatives of the weekend was the “Hockey Hooky” game. Recognizing the team’s hard work, dedication, and passion for the game, the organizing group wanted to create an opportunity for players to showcase their love for hockey in front of their classmates.

With players coming from seven different schools across five communities, the idea was simple but meaningful, invite their classmates to experience the game firsthand. The result was incredible. Four schools were able to attend, bringing nearly 500 students from kindergarten through Grade 9 into the stands to cheer on the Vikings.

The energy in the arena was electric. Students waved handmade posters, cheered loudly, and celebrated every moment on the ice. A team sibling even suited up as the Augustana Vikings mascot, adding an extra layer of excitement for the younger fans.

“For some of the kids watching, it was their first time experiencing hockey and maybe even the start of a new passion. For others, it was an eye-opening look at the speed and intensity of the game,” said Trevor Cunningham Host Committee Member.

For the players, it was an experience unlike any other. Taking the ice in front of the largest crowd they had ever played in front of, they delivered a thrilling 3-2 victory over Calgary. The excitement and pride were evident and the memory of that game will stay with them for years to come.

Hosting the Provincial Championship was a significant milestone for the Camrose community and it came with its share of challenges. Early on, the organizing committee faced uncertainty when the Max McLean Arena ice plant went down. With time ticking, contingency plans were considered but the City of Camrose stepped up in a big way, ensuring the facility was ready in time for the event.

That level of support carried through every aspect of the championship. From sponsors and volunteers to facility staff and community members, the event became a true team effort. The sense of pride and collaboration was evident throughout the weekend, creating an environment that felt both professional and deeply personal.

Attention to detail also played a key role in elevating the experience. When it was initially determined that no logos would be installed in the ice due to time constraints, organizers saw an opportunity to do something special. Working quickly with local partners, they were able to have a Provincial Championship logo placed at centre ice just in time.

For the players, stepping onto the ice and seeing that logo reinforced the significance of the moment. It signaled that this was more than just another game, it was a championship. It also ensured that the memories captured in photos and videos would carry that sense of occasion for years to come.

From an organizational standpoint, one of the most rewarding aspects of the weekend was the feedback from visiting teams, coaches, and families. From the decorated dressing rooms to pre- and post-game interviews and the overall atmosphere, every detail was designed to make the experience special for all participants.

The impact of hosting Provincials extended far beyond the ice. For players, it was an opportunity to compete at the highest level while creating memories that may last a lifetime. For volunteers, it was a chance to come together and take pride in delivering a major event. For the community, it brought people together while supporting local businesses and showcasing what Camrose has to offer.

The weekend concluded in storybook fashion, with the Vikings capturing gold in double overtime, capping off what many described as a Cinderella season. But beyond the championship win, it was the moments in between the emotion, the connection, and the community spirit that truly defined the event.

It was a year and a championship, that will never be forgotten for the U15AA Camrose Vikings team.