New Hockey Season, New Team: Take the Player Pledge and Online Player Education Program

Registration is now open for athletes interested in participating in the 2026 Arctic Winter Games.

The Arctic Winter Games are the world’s largest Northern multi-sport and cultural event. The Games are a celebration of athletic competition, culture, friendship and cooperation between Northern contingents. Teams that regularly participate in ice hockey include Alaska, Yukon, Alberta North, Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

The 2026 Arctic Winter Games are set for March 7-15 in Whitehorse, Yukon.

In 2024, Matanuska-Susitna Borough in Alaska hosted the Arctic Winter Games with Team Alberta North’s Female squad winning the Gold Medal (Ulu) and the U15 Male team claiming Silver.

Registration forms for the selection camps for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games can be found at the links below:

U15 Male Selection Camp Registration >

U19 Female Selection Camp Registration >

If anyone has any questions regarding the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Selection Camps, please contact Blake Cosgrove, Manager, Elite Hockey Development, Hockey Alberta or Dallas Ansell, Manager, Player Development

Welcome to the 2025-26 Hockey Alberta season.

Across the province, hockey is more than just a game, it’s a community, a tradition, and a passion that connects us all. From the first skate on frozen ponds to the bright lights of the rink, this season is about celebrating the players, coaches, officials, volunteers, families, and fans who make hockey thrive in Alberta.

We are excited to officially drop the puck on another season filled with competition, growth, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re lacing up for the first time, chasing a championship, or cheering from the stands, you are part of what makes hockey strong in our province.

Watch the Puck Drop video and join us in launching the 2025-26 season. ALBERTA Hockey lives here!

We’re excited to announce the launch of the new Hockey Alberta Official Store!

What You’ll Find

From everyday essentials to performance gear, the store is packed with:

• Hoodies, T-shirts, and lululemon apparel
• Event-specific designs and league merch
• Accessories, seasonal collections, and specialty items

This store is more than just another temporary pop-up like we’ve done in the past; it’s designed to be the official destination for Hockey Alberta apparel and merchandise. Instead of a small, one-off collection, this store provides full product lines that is continuously refreshed and built to match what athletes, families, and fans want to wear.

By creating a well-rounded mix of everyday lifestyle items, athletic performance gear, and fun accessories, this store gives players, families, and supporters a reason to shop year-round. Make Hockey Alberta a part your daily lives, whether they’re at the rink, in the gym, or out in the community.

SHOP THE COLLECTION TODAY >

Also be sure to check out the AEHL and AFHL stores within the new Hockey Alberta store.

Don’t forget to follow Hockey Alberta on Instagram for promos and giveaways.

Thank you for being part of the Hockey Alberta family. We can’t wait to see you wearing your new gear!

September 8, 2025 – Para hockey participants from across Alberta came together to celebrate the start of a new season in one of Canada’s most inclusive sports.

The event was more than just an opportunity to get players back on the ice. It served as a celebration of para hockey’s community spirit, the dedication of athletes and coaches, and the continued growth of the sport across the province. Participants ranging in age from eight to fifty-six took to the ice, sharing their love for the game while building connections that will last throughout the season.

A key highlight of the two days was the opportunity for athletes to work with Tara Chisholm, Provincial Program Director with the Paralympic Sports Association and head coach of Canada’s Women’s Para Hockey National Team. Chisholm led players through a series of drills and skill stations designed not only to prepare athletes for the season but also to inspire confidence and teamwork on the ice.

“We’re seeing the beginning of real momentum from both provincial and national organizations, bringing more resources and opportunities for the Para hockey community,” said Chisholm. “I am really excited to see what takes shape over the next few years when it comes to the development of our sport.”

Alongside the on-ice sessions, the event also included marketing and promotion opportunities designed to help grow the sport even further. Hockey Alberta and Hockey Canada were on hand to capture content that will be used to promote para hockey initiatives and highlight the new Para Hockey Coaching Module. The goal is to provide resources that make the game more accessible to coaches, athletes, and families across Canada, ensuring that para hockey continues to thrive.

For athletes like Reid Hintz, the sport is about more than competition, it’s about inclusion and opportunity. “I think it’s important that everyone can play sports,” Hintz explained. “Like, you see your friends playing [stand up hockey], but you know you can’t do that. Now you can do something like them.”

That message resonates across Alberta, where para hockey has seen steady growth in recent years. Currently, seven clubs operate across the province, providing opportunities for players of all ages and abilities:

• Edmonton Adaptive Sports Association

• Edmonton Sled Hockey Club

• Paralympic Sports Association

• Calgary Sledge Hockey Association

• Wolverines Wheelchair Sports Association

• Medicine Hat Adaptive Sport & Recreation

• Team Jigger (Lacombe, and Central Alberta)

Together, these organizations are helping to build a strong foundation for the sport, ensuring that para hockey remains a welcoming and inclusive option for athletes and families across Alberta.

As the season begins, the excitement and momentum from the kick-off are sure to carry forward. With more athletes joining every year and new resources being developed for coaches and clubs, the future of para hockey in Alberta is brighter than ever.

For the players who left the rink smiling, tired, and inspired, the weekend was more than just a season opener, it was a celebration of what makes para hockey so special: opportunity, community, and a game for everyone.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta is excited to announce the return of the Female Coach Development Network (FCDN) for its third year, continuing to create meaningful opportunities for female coaches across the province.

The FCDN is designed to connect, educate, and empower female coaches involved in Hockey Alberta programming, helping to strengthen their knowledge, confidence, and leadership in the game.

For the 2025/26 season, the program will be adding two in-person gatherings and continuing with monthly meetings, providing coaches with multiple touchpoints to learn, collaborate, and grow their networks. These sessions will focus on key areas of coaching development, mentorship, and leadership both on and off the ice.

“The Female Coach Development Network is about building a strong community where female coaches feel supported and valued,” said Danielle Wheeler, Manager of Female Development. “By offering both in-person and virtual opportunities, we can connect coaches from across Alberta while ensuring flexibility and accessibility.”

Since its launch, the Female Coach Development Network has supported approx. 70 female coaches at various levels of the game, from grassroots to elite programming each season. Entering year three, the Network continues to play a pivotal role in developing female coaches and ensuring that coaches have the tools and confidence to succeed.

Female coaches interested in participating in the Female Coach Development Network can learn more and register through Hockey Alberta’s website here.

Hockey season is just around the corner, an exciting time for players, parents, coaches, officials, volunteers, and communities across Alberta. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned hockey family, being well-prepared can make all the difference in creating a smooth, stress-free, and memorable season for everyone.

1. Gear Check

Make sure all equipment fits properly and is worn the right way, from neck guards, helmets, and properly fitted skates. Safety starts with the basics. Just as important, double-check that all the equipment and essentials you’ll need for practices and games are packed in your hockey bag, so you’re never missing key gear when you arrive at the rink. Being prepared keeps players safe, confident, and ready to focus on the game.

Proper sizing, placement, and maintenance of equipment goes a long way in ensuring player safety.

2. Be an engaged member of your Minor Hockey Association

Stay connected! Follow your local MHA on social media and check their website regularly for updates, schedules, and important announcements. Beyond just following, take time to familiarize yourself with your association’s processes, policies, and parent expectations so you know what’s required and how you can support. Also, look for opportunities to get involved, hockey truly runs on volunteers. Whether it’s helping on the bench, organizing events, or supporting behind the scenes, every contribution makes a difference in creating a positive experience for players and families. Staying connected and engaged not only helps your team succeed but also strengthens the larger hockey community.

3. Try-Outs

During tryouts parents should focus on encouragement rather than the outcome. Tryouts can be stressful, anxiety is high, and kids often feel pressure to perform and impress coaches. By emphasizing effort, sportsmanship, and personal growth instead of just making the team, parents can help foster resilience and a love for hockey.

Celebrate the courage it takes to try, and remind them that every experience, whether a triumph or a setback, is an opportunity to learn and grow. This supportive perspective not only eases anxiety but also builds confidence and lifelong skills both on and off the ice!

4. Stay Organized

Mark game days, practices, and tournaments on a family calendar. Staying ahead of the schedule helps reduce stress during the busy season.

5. Fuel Up Right

Encourage healthy meals and hydration before and after ice times. Proper nutrition helps young athletes perform and recover.

Health and Lifestyle >

6. Respect in the Rink

Model positive behavior in the stands, on the ice, and anywhere in the rinks. Players, coaches, and officials thrive in supportive environments where respect is shown by everyone. Consider signing the Players Pledge, change starts within, and Hockey Alberta is challenging all teams to participate in a team building activity, recognize the Player Pledge and commit to actions of safety, inclusion, and respect throughout the 2025-2026 season. Know how to bring forward concerns and take action to ensure a safe and respectful environment in the rink.

Visit the Players Pledge and Online Players Program or contact Carlia Schwab, Manager, EDI and Safe Sport, at [email protected] with your teams interest.

7. Celebrate Milestones

Do you know a player who just hit a big milestone? A volunteer who always goes above and beyond? A coach who is making a real impact? Or maybe a special event or initiative that’s helping grow the game in your community?

We want to hear about it! At Hockey Alberta, we’re always looking for inspiring stories that showcase the people and moments making a difference in our game.

These stories help us celebrate the dedication, passion, and accomplishments happening across the province, but we need your help to find them.

If you have a story, please email us at [email protected] so we can highlight it through our channels and shine a spotlight on the incredible individuals and communities that make hockey in Alberta so special.

8. Balance On and Off the Ice

Remember: hockey is important, but so are school, friends, and family. Striking a healthy balance keeps the season enjoyable. Hockey is often described as a physical game, as important as physical fitness is, so is everyone’s mental health. Hockey Alberta is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants. Check out our Mental health recourses and helplines that offer supports for all Albertans.

9. Parent Role in Safety & Injury Awareness

Parents play a key role in ensuring player safety. Review the Pre-Season Concussion Education Sheet to better understand, recognize, and follow return-to-play protocols. Remember, injuries can happen even when proper precautions are taken. If an injury occurs, the Hockey Canada Injury Report Form should be completed within 90 days, even if insurance does not seem necessary at the time of injury or recovery.

• Pre-Season Concussion Education Sheet

• Hockey Canada Injury Report

10. Enjoy the Experience and Have Fun

At the end of the day, hockey is about more than just winning games. Hockey can be competitive, but the priority is creating positive experiences. Celebrate the small victories and enjoy the game, we’re building hockey for life. Before the season starts and emotions run high, sit down with your players and collaboratively write down goals for their sports experience. Keep this list close by and refer back to it throughout the season to help maintain your focus on the bigger picture. Hockey gives everyone a chance to compete, learn, and grow, but most importantly, to have fun.

✔ Encourage your player to take it all in – the excitement, the teamwork, and the friendships.
✔ Celebrate their efforts, no matter the outcome – Every shift, every save, and every play contributes to their development.
✔ Make it a family memory – Years from now, you’ll remember the laughs, the road trips, and the excitement more than the scores.

Soak in every moment, because these experiences don’t last forever!

Women’s Para Hockey of Canada (WPHC) has announced the 15-player roster that will represent the nation at the first ever Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championships, taking place August 26-31 in Dolný Kubín, Slovakia.

The roster finalized after a three-game Border Battle against Team USA in Thorold, Ontario is made up of two goaltenders, four defenders, and nine forwards. The group showcases an impressive mix of skill, determination, and international experience, with athletes hailing from six provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Quebec.

Today’s Championship is a groundbreaking moment for the sport, with Canada joining Australia, Great Britain, Norway, USA, and Team World as the six nations competing for gold.

According to CBC, Head coach Tara Chisholm, who has led the program since 2013, emphasized the significance of the event:

"We’re not just building our team and program, we’re helping to build the history of the women’s game," she said. "These [games] are going to be marked down forever and recorded within the history books of the sport."

Following the World Championships, Hockey Canada, Hockey Alberta, and Tara Chisholm will team up to host a Para Hockey Kick-Off event at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer. The camp is open to anyone interested in trying para hockey for the first time, as well as to returning players eager to sharpen their skills ahead of the season.

“Para Hockey is an inclusive space for individuals of all abilities, ages, and skill levels. Raising awareness about the sport is essential for encouraging participation and demonstrating the connection and community that comes with being part of a sporting activity,” said Cassandra Campbell, Coordinator growth and Retention at Hockey Alberta, “By supporting Para Hockey, we uplift athletes of all abilities and strengthen our communities, showcasing the power of sports to inspire, and unite everyone. Promoting Para Hockey fosters a culture of acceptance and opportunity for all”.

Equipment is available for those new to the sport, simply indicate your needs on the registration form, and organizers will help with fitting and sizing. Current para hockey coaches are also invited to take part and connect with fellow leaders in the game.

Registration is open and closes September 3, 2025.

Register Now >

Recourses:

https://www.cbc.ca/sports/paralympics/winter-sports/para-ice-hockey/para-ice-hockey-womens-world-championships-preview-canada-1.7617485

Check out the August Edition of the Ice Times Newsletter.

Included this month:

• Back to Hockey - The first day of hockey is coming!
• AEHL AAA Schedules released
• Coach Education Pathways
  AND MORE!

ICE TIMES NEWSLETTER >

Five Hockey Alberta alumnus received invitations to join Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Selection Camp, with one other Albertan joining the National Women’s U-22 Development Team Series versus the USA.

Alexis Ehrman (Airdrie), Rowan Houweling (Edmonton), Ciara Lang (Sherwood Park), Madison Terry (Edmonton) and Tayla Lamabe (Sherwood Park) have all gotten the call to attend the camp from August 6-9 at WinSport in Calgary. The selection camp will feature on- and off-ice training sessions and practices, as well as three Red-White games on August 7-9. Once selected, Team Canada will play a three-game series against the United States, August 13-16 at Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, New York. Canada is defending its gold medal on home ice at the 2026 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship, January 8-18 in Sydney and Membertou, Nova Scotia.

The five women selected for the team are also all hopefuls to crack the Team Alberta roster at the 2025 Team Alberta U18 Female Fall Camp, in which the roster is set to attend the 2025 National Women’s Under-18 Championship in Mount Pearl and Conception Bay South, NL, taking place November 2-8.

In addition, Calgary native Makayla Watson has joined the roster for Team Canada’s Under-22 National Women’s Development squad. This roster is set to play a three-game series against the United States from August 13-16, also at Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid.

RED DEER – Twenty-eight athletes have been selected to attend the 2025 Team Alberta Female Fall Camp.

Three goaltenders, nine defence and 16 forwards are competing for a roster position on Team Alberta’s U18 female squad at the 2025 National Women’s Under-18 Championship in Mount Pearl and Conception Bay South, NL, taking place November 2-8.

TEAM ALBERTA U18 FEMALE FALL CAMP INVITES >

Fall camp is taking place from September 25-28 in Red Deer, where the Team Alberta hopefuls will play games against women’s USports teams - Both the University of Alberta Pandas and University of Calgary Dinos.

Team Alberta’s U18 female squad went 1-0-2 and finished sixth at the 2024 National Women’s U18 Championship in Quispamsis, NB, dropping their final game against Ontario Blue by a score of 2-0

Four Hockey Alberta alumnus received invitations to join Canada at the 2025 World Junior Summer Showcase in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The showcase began July 27, and runs until August 2.

Harrison Brunicke (Calgary), Braeden Cootes (Sherwood Park), Charlie Elick (Calgary) and Terik Parascak (Lethbridge) are part of 44 players invited to the showcase. Brunicke, Cootes and Elick are all Alberta Elite Hockey League alumni, with Brunicke and Cootes also representing Team Alberta.

Brunicke, Elick and Parascak were drafted in 2024, with Parascak being drafted 17th overall (Washington Capitals), Elick going 36th overall (Columbus Blue Jackets) and Brunicke going 44th overall (Pittsburgh). Cootes heard his name called at 15th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft by the Vancouver Canucks.

The player selection process featured some Albertan influence, featuring Program of Excellence head scout Byron Bonora (Brooks).

All players attending will take part in practices, scrimmages and a trio of exhibition games against Finland, Sweden and the United States in preparation for the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, December 26–January 5 in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The players will be split into two teams – Red and White – for practices and an intrasquad game on July 29, before taking on Finland July 30, Sweden on Aug. 1 and the United States on Aug. 2.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta recognized several exceptional individuals and associations this afternoon through the Hockey Alberta Membership Awards Program presented by ATB, celebrating the outstanding work and dedication shown during the 2024-25 season.

In addition, we also took time earlier today to recognize three individuals who have made a lasting impact on the game in Alberta.

Life Membership Status

This special moment brought together members of the Hockey Alberta community to celebrate the remarkable careers of Fran Zinger, Terry Engen, and John Jacobs. The newest recipients of Hockey Alberta Life Membership, the highest honour Hockey Alberta can bestow. This prestigious recognition is reserved for individuals whose lifetime of service, leadership, and passion have made a significant and lasting impact on the game.

Congratulations to:

Fran Zinger – With 17 years of devoted service and a legacy of leadership that broke barriers for women in sport, Fran’s impact reaches every kid, every community.

Terry Engen – From grassroots leadership to a national presence on the Hockey Canada Board, Terry’s tireless dedication has shaped the game across the province.

John Jacobs – Known as an officiating icon whose lifelong devotion to hockey transformed the game across Alberta and beyond. John has left a legacy on and off the ice.

READ FULL BIOS HERE>

2025 Hockey Alberta Membership Awards

Celebrated this afternoon were the recipients of the 2025 Hockey Alberta Membership Awards, recognizing excellence across our membership:

Order of Merit:

• The Ernie Boruk Award - Stefan Brown

• The Dave Ganley Award - Francis Rankin

• Excellence In Administration - Seema King

• Excellence In Administration - Trevor Hittel

• Excellence In Development: Ivon Prefontaone

• Official of the Year – Jacob Hicks

• Provincial Championships Host Site Award: Kneehill MHA

• Volunteer of the Year – Derek Martin (Redcliff)

• Minor Hockey Association of the Year – Cochrane HMA

• Coach of the Year – Murray Kuzio (Strathcona)

• Lifetime Achievement Award: Larry Golby (Coronation)

Congratulations to all of our award recipients and honourees. Thank you for your passion, leadership, and commitment to making hockey a sport for life. Hockey for Life.

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta is proud to recognize three exceptional individuals with Life Membership status for their outstanding contributions to minor hockey in Alberta.

Fran Zinger, Terry Engen, and John Jacobs have been named as the newest Life Members, honouring decades of volunteer service, leadership, and passion for the game. A celebration in their honour will take place on Saturday, July 19.

This celebration is a momentous occasion for the Hockey Alberta family as we come together to celebrate and recognize the outstanding contributions of Fran, Terry, and John to the game of hockey in our great province of Alberta

A Hockey Alberta Life Membership is the highest distinction that Hockey Alberta can bestow, an honour reserved for individuals whose dedication and service have left a lasting impact on our sport.

FRAN ZINGER

Join us in celebrating Fran Zinger, a pioneer in Alberta’s hockey community. With 17 years of devoted service and a legacy of leadership that broke barriers for women in sport, Fran’s impact reaches every kid, every community. From Zone 7 Director to Board Vice Chair, her journey is a testament to courage, vision, and commitment.

TERRY ENGEN

Terry Engen of Eckville, a true icon in Alberta’s hockey community. From grassroots leadership to a national presence on the Hockey Canada Board, Terry’s tireless dedication has shaped the game across the province. With over 25 years of local service and a deep commitment to accessibility.

JOHN JACOBS

John Jacobs is an officiating icon whose lifelong devotion to hockey transformed the game across Alberta and beyond. From his start in 1967 to achieving the highest ranks as a linesman, John’s excellence graced international arenas, including the Team Canada and Viking Cups. Off the ice, he mentored, led, and uplifted officials through decades of selfless service. In recognition of his incredible impact, including his 2013 Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame induction.

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 WHL Cup in October.

Thirty-four athletes are in contention to make the final roster, with four goaltenders, 12 defence, and 18 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.

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 WHL Cup, beginning with the Alberta Cup. The WHL Cup is held annually in non-Canada Winter Games years, with the last WHL Cup taking place in 2024 in Red Deer, seeing Team Alberta come away with the gold medal.

Team Alberta, fueled by Gatorade, is slated to compete at the WHL Cup in Red Deer against Team B.C., Team Saskatchewan and Team Manitoba.

This past weekend, eighteen of Alberta’s top up and coming officials gathered for the Provincial Officials Development Camp, a multi-day immersive experience held in conjunction with Hockey Alberta’s U16 Male Development Camp.

The camp delivered a full slate of development opportunities, from on-ice techniques, fitness testing, seminars on nutrition, and career pathways. For each official, the invitation to attend marks the final step in a journey that began years ago.

“We trust them to work at the highest levels of minor hockey. What starts in their local Minor Hockey Association with grassroots training can eventually lead them to Showcases, regional camps, the Alberta Cup, and finally this summer camp, which is our last step before they move on to other opportunities within the Hockey Canada system or other branches like the Western Hockey League” explains Liam MacIsaac, Manager of Officiating at Hockey Alberta.

The camp doesn’t stop at hockey. It includes real-world goal setting, sessions on communication, personal development, and skills they can instill into the next generation, something that struck a chord with many in attendance.

For Neve Palmer, an official camp attendee, the camp was a milestone moment in her officiating journey.

“It’s a special privilege to be here,” she shared. “I didn’t know much about the camp besides how gruelling it is. But I’d heard it’s one of the best experiences, where you make memories and friendships that last throughout the province.”

Darian Hewson, an official camp attendee, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the intense learning, camaraderie, and shared goals.

“It’s not just officiating for a weekend, it’s a chance to hone your skills, compete, and push each other to get better,” he said. “We’re all striving to get to the next level and this camp is a key part of that journey.”

The success of the Officials Development Camp is built on a strong foundation of mentorship and experience. Their return as mentors highlights the strength of Hockey Alberta’s development model and reflects a core value of the program, giving back. As each generation of officials progresses, they carry forward the responsibility to support and guide the next, continuing a cycle of growth and excellence.

Jacob Hicks, an official currently working in the WHL and AHL, returned to camp not as a participant, but as a mentor.

“It’s my life’s passion,” he said. “Without the Hockey Alberta program, I definitely wouldn’t be where I’m at to be able to give back and give a few pieces of information that might help, you know, the fewer all of the officials reached those leagues in those events that they’re hoping to reach, then that makes me, you know, super happy for those guys. And that’s how the game works. That’s what the game deserves is people coming back and giving back.”

As another summer development camp wraps up, Hockey Alberta isn’t just developing great officials, they’re building a stronger game, one leader at a time.

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 >

PHOTO GALLERY >

LOS ANGELES – Ten Albertans were selected in the 2025 National Hockey League Draft to nine different teams during the two-day event in Los Angeles from June 27-28.

Jackson Smith (Calgary) was the first Albertan off the board, going fourteenth overall to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Braeden Cootes (Sherwood Park) was right behind him, being drafted at number 15 by the Vancouver Canucks.

Eight more were drafted in rounds two through seven on Saturday.

In total, nine are alumni of the Alberta Elite Hockey League, six of them also being Team Alberta alumnus.

A full list of Albertans drafted can be found below.