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Image: Gatorade logo with female Team Alberta player


Team Alberta Fall Camp set for Edmonton

EDMONTON – Twenty-eight athletes are attending the Team Alberta Female Fall Camp, September 22-24 in Edmonton.

Three goaltenders, nine defence and 16 forwards are coming to camp with the goal of earning a sport on the team that is competing at the National Women’s Under-18 Championship.

Team Alberta Under-18 Female Fall Camp Invites >

Fall Camp allows the athletes to be evaluated in on and off-ice sessions and includes games against three USports women’s teams.

Game one is scheduled for Friday at 7 pm the Downtown Community Arena against MacEwan University Gryphons. Games two and three are at the Clare Drake Arena. On Saturday at 2 pm, the University of Alberta Pandas provide the opposition, and on Sunday at 12:30 pm, the team faces the University of Calgary Dinos.

Following the camp, athletes continue to be evaluated with their club teams.

Team Alberta Female, fuelled by Gatorade, takes the ice at the National Women’s Under-18 Championship in Dawson Creek, BC, November 5-11.

News

Image: Brett Kramers on far left


When Connection Meets Opportunity

One might say the coaching career of Brett Kramers has been fast-tracked. But his dedication to the game, hard work and willingness to learn would say otherwise.

Growing up as a goaltender with South Side Athletic Club, it was a natural transition for Kramers when he started his coaching journey at 18 as a goaltender coach with the club.

Just five seasons later, Kramers is preparing for his first season as the head coach of the U17 AAA Fort Saskatchewan South Fort Chev Rangers in the Alberta Elite Hockey League (AEHL).

“The short time I’ve been involved in the AEHL has been amazing, and I expect nothing less in the coming month,” said Kramers. “The resources that the coaches have at their fingertips is crazy to me. There’s not enough time in the day to list all the resources we have as coaches and all the connections that I’ve already made.”

The 23-year-old university student, is joining the league as the youngest bench boss in the AEHL.

“I’ve always looked at my age as more of a strength than a weakness,” said Kramers. “I know what the players are going through, not just in hockey, but in school and life, so it’s given me the unique ability to connect with them.”

Kramers has surrounded himself with a support system of coaches who are looking to help him grow.

“I’ve been fortunate to coach with some really helpful people. Especially when I was just starting out, I had people show me what it means to be a coach and show me the sides of the game that I didn’t know,” said Kramers. “Now, one of the things I’ve learned with Hockey Alberta is the best coaches are the best thieves in a sense where you’re always taking pieces that you like from other coaches to do it your way.”

Derrick Martin, an assistant coach with Team Alberta Male, and Zenith Komarniski, a former pro turned coach in Fort Saskatchewan, are two fellow Spring Showcase coaches who Kramers now calls mentors.

“Derrick and Zenith have been so helpful to me and in different ways,” said Kramer. “Derrick is one of the people who has given me the inspiration to take coaching seriously. The work he puts in is truly second to none and it’s inspired me to have the same work ethic and the same compete level when it comes to being a better coach and person for the kids.”

The connection to Komarniski developed through the 2022 Prospects Cup, when Kramers debuted in the Spring Showcase program as an assistant coach.

“Not only has Zenith shared what he’s learned as a coach, but also what he’s experienced as a professional, and to someone like me who aspires to be at that level someday, it’s something I keep close to my heart,” said Kramers.

In 2023, Kramers returned as an assistant coach at the Alberta Cup, once again along side Komarniski on the bench.

“I’ve been able to take so many key tools from the Showcase and the events I’ve done with Hockey Alberta and translate them to my winter season,” said Kramers. “It’s different from short-term to long-term competition. The short-term, you’re looking for the team that’s going to come together super quick, build trust, have vulnerability and build connections right away and that’s one of the biggest things I’ve taken back to my winter team.”

As Kramers moves through his career, he credits Hockey Alberta programming and connections as a pivotal part of his growth.

“Hockey Alberta has done so much for me in just the two years I’ve been involved in the program. I wouldn’t be where I am without the programs they’ve offered,” said Kramers. “I’ve been able to see a lot of things at such a young age. Every time I go to a Hockey Alberta event, I feel like I’m the youngest guy there and I leave with a notepad full of new things to try or new philosophies.”

Through his opportunities with Hockey Alberta, lived coaching experience, mentors, podcasts and professional development he participates in, Kramers has started to craft his own coaching philosophy.

“It’s the messages and values I’ve been able to take from all the connections I’ve made whether it be through the South Side Athletic Club, my time with Fort Saskatchewan now or through the events I’ve done with Hockey Alberta,” said Kramers. “It’s finding the character kids – kids who are going to work for you on the ice and work for themselves most importantly. But what’s really important to me is to be able to see that a kid is going to be just as good of a person away from the rink and represent themselves with class, as much as they are going to bring the same mindset into the rink.”

Like any coach, his philosophy is ever-evolving as Kramers continues to learn.

“The biggest thing that keeps me coming back to Hockey Alberta events is seeing the success that other coaches have had,” said Kramers. “To see the progression that Hockey Alberta is able to make whether it’s to Hockey Canada, to junior or to the NHL. The more I come back, the more I learn, I’m putting myself in the right direction as a coach of where I want to go in the future.”

Hockey Alberta’s Spring Showcase events - Alberta Cup, Alberta Challenge and Prospects Cup - serve as identification and development programs for the top coaches, players, medical personnel and administrators in the Hockey Alberta system. Coach, Director of Operations and Trainer applications for all three events open October 2 on the Hockey Alberta and Spring Showcase websites. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply.

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Image: four female Hockey Alberta coaches


Female Coach Development Network

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta is excited to launch the Female Coach Development Network in the 2023-24 season.

The new pilot program is for female coaches across the province to connect and learn from each other. The network is free to join and open to coaches at all levels and ages that are currently coaching or coached in the 2022-23 season.

Coaches who join the network have access to mentors and resources to learn and help navigate their seasons. One call is scheduled each month, from October-February, with professional development and the opportunity to discuss situations coaches are going through.

“Hockey Alberta is prioritizing supporting women in the game,” said Danielle Wheeler, Hockey Alberta’s Female Hockey Mentor. “We recognize we need to support our female coaches throughout the season and the Female Coach Development Network gives those coaches a safe space to share what they’re going through, learn and network with other coaches.”

To ensure everyone’s voice is heard, the network is divided by two groups – North and South. Ally Bendfeld is leading the South group, while Wheeler leads the North.

Bendfeld works as an assistant coach with the Olds College Broncos (ACAC). In 2023, she travelled to the Canada Winter Games as an assistant coach with Team Alberta Female. Over the years she’s been involved in many Team Alberta programs, including as an assistant coach with the gold medal winning 2019 Canada Winter Games team and a Coach Mentor at the Alberta Challenge.

Wheeler is a former professional player and played NCAA Division I for Mercyhurst University. Coupled with her work with Hockey Alberta, she has coached in the Alberta Challenge and at her local minor levels. A lifelong student of the game, she is currently coaching Male U15 AA.

For any questions about the Female Coach Development Network, Wheeler can be reached at [email protected].

Join the Female Coach Development Network >


FEMALE-ONLY COACH CLINICS

Hockey Alberta is hosting female-only coach clinics in Edmonton and Calgary this season.

Edmonton is hosting a Coach 2 course on October 28. Registration is now open.

Register >

Calgary is hosting three clinics. Coach 1 is scheduled for October 15, Coach 2 on October 22 and Checking Skills on October 29. Watch for registration to open.

Female-only coach clinics provide an inclusive environment to all females to learn the game and become certified in the necessary clinics.

For information on the Edmonton clinic, contact Danielle Wheeler ([email protected]) and for information on the Calgary clinics, contact Darcy Steen ([email protected]).

News

Image: Hockey Alberta coaches and players


Professional Development Coach Speaker Series Scheduled for this Fall

RED DEER – The 2023-24 season is here and Hockey Alberta is offering a professional development speaker series to coaches.

Targeted for Alberta’s elite coaches, presenters include Kyle McLaughlin, Topher Scott and Ryan Aasman. Each presentation is designed to aid coaches in planning and developing their season, to help set the team up for a year of success.

Presentations take place on September 25, October 16, 23 and November 13 at 7 P.M., register for each session below.


Creating a Comprehensive Seasonal Plan – Kyle McLaughlin

September 25

McLaughlin captained St. Cloud State University of the NCAA Division I, before dedicating his time to coaching. For over a decade, he has coached minor hockey teams in the Canmore Minor Hockey Association and Bow Valley Minor Hockey Association, while working with the Canmore Eagles of the AJHL as an assistant coach and director of skill development. In 2018, he was recognized as Hockey Alberta’s Coach of the Year.

Register >


Creating a Culture Conducive for Player Development – Topher Scott

October 16

Scott is the Director of Hockey Operations at the University of Michigan of the NCAA. A former player and coach at Cornell University, Scott has worked in a variety of different roles and levels of hockey, specifically on leadership and building culture. A founder of The Hockey Think Tank, he collaborates with coaches and leaders in the game across North America.

Register >


Player Habits that Translate to Junior Hockey – Ryan Aasman

Aasman is an assistant coach with the Lethbridge Hurricanes. Working multiple years in grassroots hockey, at the Alberta Elite Hockey League and now in the WHL, Aasman brings his player and coaching experience to the forefront when discussing Player Habits that Translate to Junior Hockey.

October 23

Register >


Designing Development Focused Practices – Kyle McLaughlin

McLaughlin returns to discuss Designing Development Focused Practices, combining his experience in the minor and junior ranks to get the most out of practice time.

November 13

Register >


The presentations will be recorded and posted on Hockey Alberta’s Youtube channel following the conclusion of the series.

Team Alberta

Image: Team Alberta hockey player holding hockey stick


Team Alberta Male Announced for 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta, in partnership with the Indigenous Sport Council of Alberta, has selected 21 male athletes to Team Alberta competing at the 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC).

2024 NAHC Team Alberta Male >

“We are very excited to be working with such a great group of athletes from across Alberta,” said Darren Reid, Head Coach of Team Alberta Male. “The team looks to have more offence and got bigger in size. The boys are stronger this year and we have a great core.”

Tryouts were held in Red Deer at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, Aug. 3-6. Males born in 2006-2009 of Indigenous heritage (First Nation, Métis or Inuit) were eligible to try out.

The 2024 championships are coming to Alberta for the first time ever. Grande Prairie is host to NAHC May 6-12, where Team Alberta Male looks to claim their first gold medal.

The Aboriginal Sport Circle established NAHC in 2002 to serve as the premiere competition for Under-18 aged Indigenous athletes. The annual event garners participation from First Nation, Métis and Inuit athletes across the 13 provinces and territories. The event helps foster cultural unity and pride to celebrate the athletic abilities of Indigenous players.

Since its inception, Alberta has medalled five times with three silvers (2015, 2013 and 2012) and two bronze (2014 and 2008).

News

Hockey Alberta’s Statement on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The past two years have seen Hockey Alberta undertake several initiatives and engage numerous individuals to help us better understand the challenges faced by participants in our sport related to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Hockey Alberta hosted an Indigenous Hockey Summit in August 2021, and then created and hosted the inaugural 11.4 Awareness Day in 2022 with a focus on maltreatment and Hockey Canada’s new rule 11.4.

A key part of the work undertaken by Hockey Alberta has been through the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. This committee is comprised of diverse individuals with a wide range of life and athletic experiences. Members of the committee attended the Hockey Alberta Member Summit in June 2022, where they discussed the findings of the organization’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion survey.

EDI COMMITTEE AND SURVEY REPORTS >

The information gathered through these various forums has included examples of behaviors that have no place in hockey. We have heard real examples and collected data that shows that we have Equity, Diversity and Inclusion issues in hockey. It has reinforced that we have work to do to provide a safe environment and ensure that all participants have a positive experience in our sport.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY, INCLUSION AT HOCKEY ALBERTA >

The next stage in the process starts today with Hockey Alberta’s Statement on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion:

Hockey Alberta’s Statement on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Hockey Alberta acknowledges there are systemic challenges in our sport involving equity, diversity, and inclusion. All forms of discrimination and maltreatment are unacceptable and must be removed.

Hockey Alberta is committed to removing the challenges to ensure we are:

  • Creating a safe sport environment free of racism, discrimination, harassment and bullying for all participants.

  • Acting decisively to improve equity, diversity and inclusion so that our sport is accessible to all.

  • Nurturing a positive hockey culture where inclusiveness and belonging are expectations, not options.

This statement provides the framework for Hockey Alberta to address Equity, Diversity and Inclusion issues in our sport. Hockey Alberta will ensure sanctioned activities are accessible, inclusive and safe for participants of all abilities, backgrounds, and interests, and Hockey Alberta will eliminate maltreatment, bullying and harassment from the game.

Specifically, our commitments are shown in our actions. In 2023-24, Hockey Alberta will add new staff resources to our operational team to support our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee, activate on our objectives, and support our Members, as Hockey Alberta works to nurture a positive hockey culture.

Actions for 2023-24 include:

  • Engaging in a pilot with minor hockey teams that educates and brings awareness about maltreatment.
  • Continuing the education process of Hockey Alberta’s Staff, Volunteers and Board of Directors.
  • Creating a new EDI Grant for Member initiatives for advancing the game through a focus on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion,
  • Identifying and implementing Safe Sport/ EDI standards, tools and resources for use by our Members,

To review the complete plan, click on the website link below:

OBJECTIVES AND KEY RESULTS >

As well, on August 16, Hockey Canada released its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Path Forward document, and asked its branches across Canada to be involved and have stake in the Path Forward. Simply put, Hockey Alberta is in – with a commitment to working at the local, provincial and national levels to ensure a safe environment and a positive experience for all participants.


For more information, please contact Hockey Alberta:

Email: [email protected]

Team Alberta

Image: Team Alberta Female Hockey Player holding a hockey stick


Team Alberta Female selected for 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships

RED DEER – Twenty-two female athletes are suiting up in the blue and white to represent Hockey Alberta, in partnership with the Indigenous Sport Council of Alberta, at the 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC).

2024 NAHC Team Alberta Female >

“Our coaching staff and management group is very excited about the group of athletes that we have selected to represent Team Alberta at these championships,” said Jason Mercier, Head Coach of Team Alberta Female. “We have 11 returning players that were a huge part of our bronze medal team in Winnipeg, and we have an excellent group of new players that will play key roles in our success.”

Tryouts were held in Red Deer at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, Aug. 3-6. Females born in 2006-2009 of Indigenous heritage (First Nation, Métis or Inuit) were eligible to try out.

The 2024 edition of the NAHC is being hosted in Alberta for the first time ever - May 6-12 in Grande Prairie.

“Having the 2024 NAHC on home soil in Grande Prairie for the first time in its history is going to add to the story that these girls are going to write for themselves, the memories will last a lifetime,” said Mercier.

The Aboriginal Sport Circle established NAHC in 2002 to serve as the premiere competition for Under-18 aged Indigenous athletes. The annual event garners participation from First Nation, Métis and Inuit athletes across the 13 provinces and territories. The event helps foster cultural unity and pride to celebrate the athletic abilities of Indigenous players.

Team Alberta

Image: three Team Alberta hockey players


Arctic Winter Games Athlete Registration open

RED DEER – Player registration is open for the 2024 Arctic Winter Games Selection Camps.

Team Alberta North is sending a Junior Female and U15 Male team to the 2024 games in Matanuska-Susitna Borough (Mat-Su), Alaska, March 9-16.

The U15 Male Selection Camp is in Peace River, Nov. 24-26. Male athletes born in 2009-2010 and who are not playing at the AAA-level in the 2023-24 season are eligible to try out.

A week later, the Junior Female Selection Camp is scheduled in Manning, Dec. 1-3. Females born in 2005-2010, playing at any level, are eligible to try out.

All athletes must reside north of the 55th parallel to be eligible to try out.

Eligible communities >

Male Selection Camp Registration >

Female Selection Camp Registration >

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 north contingents. Teams that regularly participate in ice hockey include Alaska, Yukon, Alberta North, Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

In 2023, Alberta’s Wood Buffalo Region hosted the Arctic Winter Games with Alberta’s Junior Female squad winning the gold medal, and the U15 Male team claiming silver.

For more information on the Arctic Winter Games, visit awg2024.org.

News

Image: Hockey Alberta Coach teaching Para Hockey


Para Hockey Gliding into Red Deer

RED DEER – Para hockey is gliding into the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer, September 9-10.

The Para Hockey Player Development Camp is a one-day camp designed to accommodate players of all ages and skill levels. The camp is taking place on Saturday and features on-ice skill development and game play. Equipment (sledge and sticks) are being provided to new players to use at the camp.

There are two ice sessions scheduled for Saturday, with a drop-in session available on Sunday morning from 9-10.

Following Sunday’s ice session, a para hockey-specific coaching clinic is scheduled. The clinic includes basic skills, the importance of having players develop confidence, self-esteem and a love for the game. Coaches who complete this session will leave with the in-person portion of Coach 2 qualification, knowledge and resources specific to coaching para hockey. Full Coach 2 certification is required of all para hockey head coaches.

Both the on-ice sessions and coach clinic will be taught by National Women’s Para Hockey Team Head Coach, Tara Chisholm. Chisholm has worked in the para game for nearly two decades with experience at all levels.

Para hockey is open to both male and female able-bodied and disabled players of all ages. Played in a sit-down sledge, with two sticks, it is a game that everyone can play.

For those interested in trying/participating in para hockey this season, can reach out to a program near you.

Para Hockey Programs >

News

Join Our Team!

Hockey Alberta is now accepting applications for the position of Senior Manager, Finance and Risk. This role focuses onleading the day-to-day operations for Hockey Alberta and Hockey Alberta Foundation’s financial processes and enterprise risk management. As a full time position, the Senior Manager position includes, but is not limited to:

  • Responsible for the delivery of organizational Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) as assigned.
  • Manage and lead all functions, staff and volunteers, within Finance & Risk, including the performance management of all employees within your defined area.
  • Engage all employees to provide input into the development of the organization’s capital and operating budget and to activate on business plan objectives as assigned.
  • Provide oversight on all activities and functions implemented and/or delivered under the leadership of Finance & Risk.
  • Act as a liaison to Hockey Canada on any relevant topics, as necessary.

This position leads all processes for budgeting, forecasting, reporting, audits, payables, receivables, fund management as well as processes for risk identification and management. Leading staff in establishing and implementing financial and risk processes, this position is responsible for identifying efficiencies and ensuring organizational accountability is in place.

Job Posting >

The deadline to apply for this position is Sunday, September 24.

News

Image: Hockey Alberta Coach


Coach Clinics open for Registration

With the new season around the corner, coach clinics are taking place throughout the province.

Coaching is a great way to give back to and get involved with the game. Clinics are being held virtually and in-person. A list of coach requirements needed for each division, is available on hockeyalberta.ca.

Coach Requirements >

This season, the Coach 1 – Intro to Coach clinic is being offered at a discounted rate of $22 (plus GST) thanks to the Hockey Alberta Foundation and their partnership with the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation and Calgary Flames Foundation.

All coaching requirements need to be completed by November 15.


FEMALE COACHES

In an effort to provide an inclusive space, Hockey Alberta is also hosting female-only National Coach Certification Program (NCCP) Coach 2 courses. The courses are scheduled for this fall in Edmonton on Oct. 28 and dates are expected to be added in Calgary.


GOALTENDING COACHES

Instructional Stream 1 and 2 clinics for goaltending coaches are now available. Contact Matt Weninger ([email protected]), Regional Manager South of Elite Hockey Development, for dates.


RESPECT IN SPORT

Coaches are required to complete the Respect in Sport program. The Respect in Sport Activity Leader/Coach Program educates coaches and activity leaders to recognize, understand and respond to issues of bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination.

Respect in Sport Coach >


PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Hockey Alberta is committed to providing a positive experience for everyone in the game and believes that coach education plays a pivotal role in creating a positive environment. Coaches are encouraged to participate in courses beyond the requirements. Professional Coach Development opportunities are listed on hockeyalberta.ca.

Register for a Coach Clinic >

Professional Coach Development Clinics >

Online Coach Professional Development >

For any questions, or for more information, the Hockey Alberta Regional Manager in your area.

Ice Times Newsletter

Centre Ice Podcast

Image: Hockey Alberta Centre Ice Podcast logo


Centre Ice Podcast - Episode 31 - 2023/24 Season Puck Drop with Hockey Alberta CEO Rob Litwinski

Host Kara Spady sits down with Hockey Alberta’s Chief Executive Officer, Rob Litwinski, as they dive into the thrilling anticipation of the 2023-2024 season. Tune in to catch up on the highlights from the previous season and get a sneak peek at the upcoming improvements and innovative initiatives set to make this season unforgettable. Don’t miss out on the latest hockey buzz as the puck drop for the 2023/24 season approaches!

News

Image: hockey puck drop and face off


2023-24 Season Puck Drop

The puck is about to drop on the 2023-24 season!

Hockey Alberta has been working to ensure the game gives everyone a positive experience this season. The 2023-24 Season Puck Drop is here to share the changes coming this season, and information you need to know as you sharpen your skates for the new season.

On the webpage you can find what’s new in 2023, learn about Hockey Alberta’s refocused strategic direction, how to play, coach and official clinics, information on Team Alberta programs, grants and funding and important dates.

2023-24 Season Puck Drop >

Good luck this season! And remember, hockey is supposed to be fun. Let’s give everyone a positive experience in 2023-24.

Hockey Alberta Foundation

Image: smiling children playing hockey


Applications Open for the Hockey Alberta Member Grant Supported by Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation

RED DEER – Grant applications for the 2023 Hockey Alberta Member Grant - supported by the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation - are now being accepted.

The grant provides for new and exciting youth hockey programming opportunities in northern Alberta.

Priority for funding will be given to those in need for leadership development; introduction to hockey, female, para and Indigenous hockey programming; and inclusion and diversity initiatives.

The Member Grant is available to Hockey Alberta member organziations that are non-profit organizations located in the Red Deer area and north. It is awarded to a maximum of $20,000 per member organization.

To apply for Member Grant funding, complete the fillable form available on hockeyalbertafoundation.ca. There will be one application intake this season, with the application deadline September 30.

Apply Here >


Every Kid Every Community grant applications are also available for Community Grants and Player Assistance.

The Community Grant funds new programs or supports existing programs focused on recruiting new players to the game regardless of age, skill or environmental factors. The Player Assistance Grant offers financial support to current or new players looking to play the game of hockey.

Funding through Every Kid Every Community is available to assist amateur sports organizations, minor hockey organizations, youth groups, recreation groups, or any community group with an idea, project or program that helps establish an event or program to get local children active in hockey.

The Community Grant is awarded to a maximum of $5,000, while the Player Assistance Grant is awarded to a maximum of $3,000 per association.

Apply Here >


For families looking for player assistance, there are several options available including:

  • Hockey Canada Assist Fund
  • KidSport
  • Canadian Tire Jumpstart

The Hockey Canada Assist Fund provides up to $500 per player in registration fee subsidies to approved applicants who are registered with a Hockey Canada sanctioned association.

Hockey Canada Assist Fund >

KidSport provides financial assistance for organized sports registration fees and equipment to kids aged 18 and under. There are three programs available to hockey players in Alberta:

The ISCA Kidsport fund > | Flames EvenStrength Program > | Oil Country Hockey Assist Program >

Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart provides up to $300 per activity per child.

Canadian Tire Jumpstart >

News

Image: Lanny McDonald and Curtis Glencross hold up the Glencross Invitational trophy


Glencross Invitational Skating into Red Deer

RED DEER – The Glencross Invitational is celebrating its 10th anniversary of raising funds for charitable organizations in central Alberta with the second annual Charity Hockey Tournament and Celebrity Poker Event on October 19.

Over the past decade, the Glencross Invitational has raised $1.8 million for the Hockey Alberta Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities Alberta through the Glencross Roughstock event, and last year’s inaugural hockey tournament and poker event.

This year’s edition of the Glencross Invitational sees the Charity Hockey Tournament hosted at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre followed by the Celebrity Poker Event at the Harvest Centre in Red Deer.

Four teams compete on the ice in the morning. Each team of 15 skaters and a goaltender includes five celebrities and an appearance by a celebrity guest coach. A limited number of player spots are available for purchase, as well as tickets to watch the action unfold. Once the skates are hung up, cards are dealt for the Celebrity Poker Event.

“We’re excited to celebrate 10 years of the Glencross Invitational and are looking forward to getting back on the ice,” said Curtis Glencross. “When we started this, we didn’t have a goal dollar, but to be 10 years in and have raised nearly $2 million for children and families across Alberta is pretty incredible.”

More information on the partnership opportunities is available in the Sponsorship Package below. Tickets to watch the tournament are available online.

Sponsorship Package >

Hockey Tickets >

News

Image: kids with instructor learning para hockey


Para Hockey Player and Coach Development Opportunities

Hockey Alberta is set to host the fifth Para Hockey Season Kick-Off Event on September 9-10 at the Gary W. Harris Canada Game Centre in Red Deer.

The event consists of a Player Development Camp on the Saturday, and a Coach 2 – Coach Level certification course on Sunday.

The Player Development Camp is for new and returning players of all ages, abilities and skill levels. There will be two ice sessions on Saturday that will focus on skill development and game play. Equipment (sledges and sticks) are provided for new players to use at the camp. A bonus “drop-in” ice time also is available on Sunday from 9-10 am.

The Coach Clinic is Para Hockey-specific. Current Para Hockey coaches, or anyone who would like to coach Para Hockey, are eligible to register. The course includes an in-person classroom session (four hours) and an on-ice session (one hour). This is a great opportunity for para hockey players to develop leadership skills and learn the basics of coaching. To gain the full Coach 2 certification, coaches must also complete an online course.

REGISTER FOR THE PARA HOCKEY PLAYER DEVELOPMENT CAMP >

REGISTER FOR COACH 2 CLINIC >

REGISTER FOR COACH 2 – ON-LINE COURSE >

News

Image: Hockey Alberta Referee


Officials clinics now open for registration

RED DEER – Registration for Hockey Alberta Officials Clinics is now open. Beginning August 26, clinics are taking place across the province, continuing through to November.   

Officiating offers a network of people who love the game and are looking to give back. For every game worked, officials receive a game fee and there is an opportunity to work through the ranks from minor to elite hockey.  

Anyone 12 years old (13 years old in the Calgary and Edmonton areas) as of December 31 is eligible to become an official. Each season, officials must re-certify by taking a clinic.  Clinics include an online course, in-person portion and an on-ice session.

To become an official, create an HCR 3.0 account and register for the HU – Online Officiating ½ course that must be completed prior to the in-person portion. Skates, a helmet with a visor and a whistle are necessary for the on-ice sessions.  

Become an official > 
Find a clinic near you >  

Check back regularly to find a clinic near you and that fits your schedule as dates and locations are continuously added.  

Frequently asked questions > 

Hockey Alberta Foundation

Image: Hockey Alberta Foundation Golf Classic logo with $150,000 funds raised


Hockey Alberta Foundation Golf Classic raises $150,000

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta Foundation’s Golf Classic presented by ATB Wealth raised $150,000 for the Every Kid Every Community program.

Teams from across the province travelled to Canmore on July 17-18 to raise funds for the Hockey Alberta Foundation (HAF). Teams hit the links for two days of golf and gathered at the Cornerstone Theatre for the Every Kid Every Community Reception.

“2023 marks our best year to date and we can’t thank everyone enough for the continued support shown to the Hockey Alberta Foundation,” said Tim Leer, Executive Director of the HAF. “It is because of our sponsors, celebrity guests and the generous support we receive that the Foundation is able to give back to community initiatives and get kids on the ice across the province.”

Twenty-one teams teed off in Monday’s VIP Golf Event at Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club. ATB Financial’s John Tarnowski raised the championship belt with Mitch Bouchard, Rahul Kohli and celebrity guest, Colin Patterson.

On Tuesday, 38 teams stepped up to the tee box at Silvertip Resort. The team from McCaw’s Drilling & Blasting Ltd., Chad McCaw, Les Morrow, Dean Mcleod and celebrity guest, Chris Schlenker walked away the champs of the 2023 Golf Classic.

Dennis Zukiwsky and Graham MacLachlan, chair and director respectively on the HAF Board of Directors, greeted golfers on Hole 16, where golfers could participate in the Charity Challenge. Thank you to the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation and Flames Foundation for matching funds up to $8,700 on the Charity Challenge, for a total of $26,100 raised.

Thank you to the Golf Classic sponsors for the continued support:

In addition to the $150,000 raised through the Golf Classic, $6,395 was raised at the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame Awards Gala, totaling $156,395. A portion of those dollars will be matched from the Shaw Charity Classic AltaLink Birdies for Kids program.

The 2024 Hockey Alberta Foundation Golf Classic is scheduled for July 23-24, with the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame Awards Gala slated for Sunday, July 22.

Team Alberta

Image: Tryouts taking place for National Aboriginal Hockey Championships


Team Alberta Male and Female National Aboriginal Hockey Championship Shortlists Posted

RED DEER – Team Alberta tryouts for the 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championship (NAHC) are taking place at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer, August 3-6.

Of the 187 athletes competing for a roster position, 132 are eyeing a spot on the male team and 55 are vying for a position on the female team. Both the Male and Female camp feature on-ice sessions including small area games, practices and games. On Saturday, shortlists will be posted with the Top 44 Males and Top 33 Females.

Camp Schedule >

Top 44 Males >

Top 33 Females >

Hockey Alberta, in partnership with the Indigenous Sport Council – Alberta, will send a U18 Male and U18 Female team to the 2024 tournament, scheduled for May 6-12 in Grande Prairie. It will mark the first time Alberta has ever hosted the event.

NAHC was established in 2002 by the Aboriginal Sport Circle, to serve as the premiere competition for young Aboriginal hockey players in Canada.

The annual event provides a forum for elite U18 aged Indigenous male and female youth and attracts participation from First Nations. Métis and Inuit across the 13 provinces and territories. This annual event helps foster cultural unity and pride to celebrate Indigenous athletes and sport.


Coaching Staff Announced for 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships

RED DEER – The coaching staff for Team Alberta Female and Male, competing at the 2024 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC) have been named.

After a bronze medal finish in 2023, Jason Mercier (Edmonton) is making the step to head coach of Team Alberta Female. While Kendra Rosychuk (Calgary) is returning to the team as assistant coach. Joining them on the bench as assistant coach is Sage Sansregret (Red Deer). Trevor Lamabe (Edmonton) is back as Director of Operations and Alyssa Ross (Inuvik) joins the team as the athletic therapist.

Darren Reid (Caslan) is returning as the head coach of Team Alberta Male. He is joined by assistant coaches: Denesha Big Plume (Tsuut’ina Nation), Richard Demery (Edmonton) and Damien Kulynych (Calgary). Once again, Winston Delorme (Grande Cache) joins the team as the Director of Operations and Kevin McLarty.

Completing the Team Alberta’s staff for NAHC is General Manager, Mike Applegate (Mayerthorpe) and Lead Trainer/Equipment Manager, Kayla Cordingley (Calgary).

General Manager Mike Applegate Mayerthorpe

Lead Trainer/

Equipment Manager

Kayla Cordingley Calgary
Team Alberta Female Staff
Director of Operations Trevor Lamabe Edmonton
Head Coach Jason Mercier Edmonton
Assistant Coach Kendra Rosychuk Calgary
Assistant Coach Sage Sansregret

Red Deer

Athletic Therapist Alyssa Ross

Inuvik

Team Alberta Male Staff
Director of Operations Winston Delorme Grande Cache
Head Coach Darren Reid Caslan
Assistant Coach Denesha Big Plume Tsuut’ina Nation
Assistant Coach Richard Demery Edmonton
Athletic Therapist Kevin McLarty Olds

News

KidSport’s Oil Country Hockey Assist Program launches for second season

EDMONTON – KidSport’s Oil Country Hockey Assist Program is back!

The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation and KidSport Alberta have teamed up once again to launch the second season of the KidSport Oil Country Hockey Assist Program.

Players registered in Red Deer area and north are eligible to apply for the program. Approved applicants will have their full registration fees (up to $3,000) covered and have access to no-cost equipment from Sport Central.

Hockey Alberta is proud to be partnering with the KidSport Oil Country Hockey Assist Program to help kids get on the ice this season.

How to Apply >

_____________________________________________________________________________________

About Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation
The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF) is a proud supporter of Oil Country and has been contributing to our community’s success since 2001. With a focus on programs aimed at those most vulnerable in our community, especially in Edmonton’s downtown, and youth hockey programming with a goal to increase participation of under-represented groups in our community, the Oilers Foundation is dedicated to building strong, vibrant and safe communities by demonstrating philanthropic leadership and continues its deep legacy of giving back. Thanks to the generosity of our valued hockey fans, Oilers players and alumni, the EOCF Board of Directors, Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG) employees and the Katz Family, the Foundation has contributed over $66 million to charitable organizations and minor hockey programs across Oil Country since 2001.

About KidSport

KidSport’s core business as a charity is subsidizing sport registration fees for kids from low-income families. We believe that playing hockey promotes the development of children’s social, mental, and physical well being. We fundamentally believe that all kids who want to play hockey should be able to regardless of their family’s socioeconomic status. We have 25 KidSport chapters throughout Oil Country that provide the infrastructure to get funds to those families who need it to get their kids playing hockey. In addition, the Provincial KidSport Fund covers those communities where we do not have a chapter and the Indigenous KidSport Fund supports kids in Indigenous communities. A simple one-page application process gets things started. Once approved KidSport sends a cheque to the minor hockey association on the child’s behalf for the registration fee. In our last normal year 2019 our 38 chapters across Alberta assisted 13,677 kids into 40 sport’s by paying $3.2 million in registration fees.

News

Roket Gear on board as Hockey Alberta’s Newest Partner

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta is excited to announce a new partnership with Roket Gear.

Through the partnership, Roket Gear is offering Hockey Alberta members (associations, teams and players) a discount on their performance training equipment.

“Our commitment to supporting player development is the foundation of our partnership, and we’re excited to partner with Hockey Alberta,” said Dr. Niz Saab, Roket Gear Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. “Together we want to help players improve their performance with our training equipment by helping them develop strength and explosive speed while performing their skills on-ice. This is known as specificity training and we contend it’s the next level in sports performance training.”

Roket Gear, was co-founded by Dr. Niz Saab and Eddie Halabi in 2018 and launched in 2022. The system offers professional athletes, competitive amateurs, and coaches easy-to-use, portable training equipment. The equipment can be personalized with precise amounts of weight allowing individuals to build explosive power, speed and strength while they train.

“This technology offers a game-changing solution to help players improve with a simple and versatile system and Hockey Alberta is pleased to be able to partner with Roket Gear giving our members access to a customizable and sport specific tool,” said Mike Klass, Director of Business Operations for Hockey Alberta. “In addition to offering our members discounted pricing to the training equipment, Roket Gear has also committed to dedicating a portion of sales to develop players in the province.”

For more information or to access the 20% discount visit roketgear.com and use the code HOCKEYALBERTA20 at checkout.

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For more information please contact:

Mike Klass
Hockey Alberta
Director, Business Operations
[email protected]
403.967.0058

News

Board of Directors Recruitment Notice

The Alberta Amateur Hockey Association (Hockey Alberta) is seeking qualified candidates for three (3) Director at Large positions on its Board of Directors.

DIRECTOR AT LARGE JOB DESCRIPTION >

Deadline to submit a nomination package is AUGUST 31, 2023.

APPLICATION / NOMINATION FORM >

Hockey Alberta is the governing body for organized amateur hockey in the Province of Alberta. The Board of Directors builds and monitors the strategy of the organization through its vision, mission, values and strategic direction. The Board operates under a Policy Governance Model and delegates operations to the Chief Executive Officer. The Board is elected by and accountable to the members of Hockey Alberta. The Board holds regular meetings, either in-person in Red Deer or via phone/ online platform.

Candidate Qualifications

The Board of Directors is focused on being a diverse group comprised of individuals with a variety of skill sets and experiences. For 2023, criteria to be considered by the Nominations Committee for each candidate include:

Skills and Experience

Industry Knowledge

· Experience with aspects of the game at various levels

· Knowledge/ experience with Membership Relations (in medium and small sized communities)

Technical Skills

  • ·Legal expertise; or
  • Fund Development and Revenue Generation for Non-Profit expertise; or
  • Communications/ Marketing/ Social Media expertise.

Governance

  • Experience in Advocacy – Government Relations/ Lobbying; or
  • ·Diversity / Inclusion Strategy and Education expertise; or
  • Environmental and Social Responsibility expertise.

Diversity

The Board of Directors believes in the benefits diversity brings and recognizes that diversity of thought makes prudent business sense. Having a Board composed of individuals with diverse skills, experience, backgrounds and perspectives, as well as individuals of diverse gender identity, will provide:

  • competitive advantage;
  • robust understanding of opportunities, issues and risks;
  • inclusion of different concepts, ideas, and relationships;
  • enhanced decision-making and dialogue; and
  • heightened capacity for oversight of the organization and its governance.

For purposes of Board composition, diversity includes business and industry skills and experience, gender, and ethnicity. The Board will make good use of these differences and distinctions among individuals in recruiting for the optimum composition of the Board.

Recruitment for Board members must collectively reflect the diverse nature of the business environment in which the organization operates and be made on merit, in the context of the skills, experience, independence and knowledge which the Board requires to be effective.

In addition:

  • Previous experience on a not-for-profit board and knowledge of the workings of a board from a good governance perspective are preferred.
  • Experience and understanding of the workings of a Provincial Sport Organization is an asset.
  • Successful completion of a Criminal Record Check is required.

Process Overview

The Governance Committee of Hockey Alberta has created an external three-person Nominations Committee that includes a former Chair of the Board of Directors.

All submitted applications are reviewed by the Nominations Committee. Through the application and interview process, the Nominations Committee will prepare a list of qualified candidates to be presented to the membership for election.

Board of Director positions are elected by the Members of Hockey Alberta at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Elected individuals will serve a term of three years.

Article 5 of the Bylaws of the Alberta Amateur Hockey Association outlines the requirements that must be met for an individual to be considered eligible to be elected to the Board of Directors.

The links below to the Hockey Alberta website provide more information on Hockey Alberta Bylaws, and the Board’s Governance Model, Code of Conduct, and Conflict of Interest policy. Candidates are required to complete a conflict of interest declaration with their application.

I. BYLAWS AND REGULATIONS >

II. BOARD GOVERNANCE, STRUCTURE AND POLICIES >


For more information, please contact:

Rob Virgil

Nominations Committee Chair, Hockey Alberta

[email protected]

780-915-2873

Rob Litwinski

CEO, Hockey Alberta

[email protected]

403-342-6777


Information Bulletin 22-13 >

Team Alberta

Image: Team Alberta U18 Fall Camp Selections


Hockey Alberta Invites 28 Athletes to Team Alberta Under-18 Female Fall Camp

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

Three goaltenders, nine defence and 16 forwards are contending for a roster position on Team Alberta Under-18 Female.

Team Alberta Under-18 Female Fall Camp Invites >

“Our staff is confident in these 28 players that we have selected for the next step in our process as they have demonstrated the ability to consistently execute our style of play, concepts and habits,” said Chris Leeming, Head Coach of Team Alberta Under-18 Female. “Because of this, we are excited to continue working with this group, with the expectation that they will present us with some difficult decisions moving forward.”

Athletes will be evaluated at the Fall Camp, September 22-24, in Edmonton, where they will participate in on and off-ice sessions and face-off against three women’s teams of the USports hockey league. Following the camp, athletes will continue to be evaluated with their club teams.

Team Alberta Under-18 Female, fueled by Gatorade, is scheduled to compete at the National Women’s Under-18 Championship, November 5-11 in Dawson Creek, B.C.

News

AAA and AA Male & Female Tryout List Update

Following the removal of the Notification of Tryout procedure for AA and AAA hockey at the beginning of the 2022-23 season, Hockey Alberta has continued to review the tryout notification and player listing process, attempting to balance ease of registration for players while still ensuring a player’s resident Minor Hockey Association is aware of a player’s whereabouts throughout the tryout period.

For the 2023-24 season, Hockey Alberta has created a AA/AAA Tryout List online spreadsheet and posted it on the overview page of the Hockey Alberta Centre Ice Portal so that all registrars and minor hockey association presidents can access a live, singular database for players pursuing AAA and AA Male and Female tryouts during the 2023-24 hockey season.

Associations hosting AAA and AA Male and Female tryouts will be expected to upload the list of players registered for their tryouts to this spreadsheet according to the instructions outlined on the first tab of the spreadsheet. Associations hosting tryouts must upload all players attending tryouts, including those whose resident MHA is the same MHA hosting tryouts (ie: St. Albert MHA must upload all players from Barrhead, CR Knights, AND St. Albert for their U15 and U17 AAA tryout list) as the AA and Elite Male and Female Committees will use the information to assess Draw Zone/Recruitment Area engagement and health.

By each Tuesday afternoon between August 1 and October 1, associations will be required to use the legend provided on each sheet to update the players as they progress from in tryouts, to being released, to making teams or pursuing second tryouts. This will allow associations not hosting tryouts to keep up to date on where players that fall within their resident boundaries are located throughout the tryout process. Associations must fill out all columns on the spreadsheet.

By sorting the Resident MHA or Tryout Team columns alphabetically, any association can easily locate all players from a given minor hockey association or trying out for a given team. Using the legend they can then determine where players are located in the tryout process.

Associations may begin inputting tryout information immediately after reading through all instructions.


For any questions, please contact

Hudson Kelly

Coordinator, Elite Male Hockey


Information Bulletin 22-12 >

Hockey Alberta Foundation

Image: Kids from Variety the Children’s Charity


Volt Hockey: the Game Everyone can Play

Variety – the Children’s Charity of Alberta is giving everyone an opportunity to play the game we love, through Volt Hockey.

An adaptation of the game of hockey, Volt Hockey is played three versus three, on a court in specially designed power chairs that are battery operated and controlled with a joystick. The modified version of the game allows for participants with limited upper mobility, to play hockey.

“To play Volt Hockey you only need to have some hand function to operate the chairs, just like a typical power chair,” said Jacey Gamroth, Volt Hockey Program Coordinator. “It’s great for individuals with CP, muscular dystrophy, or higher spinal cord injuries.”

Operating in Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray, each community has nine power chairs, allowing for over 100 individuals of all ages, across the province, to try Volt Hockey throughout the last year.

“Volt Hockey is very inclusive as it puts everyone on an even playing field. Even someone who’s not living with a disability and is an able-bodied person can come out to play,” said Gamroth.

There are three seasons that run throughout the year, September-December, January-April and May-June. During the summer months, Variety – the Children’s Charity of Alberta holds “Try-it” days and camps for participants.

For the second year in a row, Variety - the Children’s Charity of Alberta is taking a team to the World Cup in Sweden. In 2022, Alberta and Ontario represented Canada at the first ever Volt Hockey World Cup in Sweden. The 2023 tournament takes place September 15-17 in Gävle, Sweden.

To outfit one team with equipment, it costs about $70,000, so Variety – the Children’s Charity of Alberta relies on grants like the Hockey Alberta Foundation’s Every Kid Every Community Grant to support the program.

“Grants like Every Kid Every Community support us in making this program accessible to more kids,” said Gamroth. “Volt hockey is a very expensive sport to run and without grants like Every Kid Every Community, we wouldn’t be able to supply the equipment or run the Volt hockey program at all.”

To learn more about Volt Hockey, how to get involved and how to support the program, visit varietyalberta.ca/volt or contact [email protected].



The Hockey Alberta Foundation is proud to support organizations like Variety – the Children’s Charity of Alberta and Volt Hockey through the Every Kid Every Community program to help youth across the province experience hockey. For more information on the Hockey Alberta Foundation or to donate, please click here.

Team Alberta

Image: Team Alberta named it’s shortlist for the 2023 U16 Male team.


Thirty-Two Athletes named to Team Alberta Under-16 Male Shortlist

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta is one step closer to naming the Under-16 Male team that will represent the province at the WHL Cup in October.

There are 32 athletes in contention to compete at the tournament. The shortlist includes four goaltenders, 10 defence and 18 forwards.

Team Alberta Under-16 Male Shortlist Roster >

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, July 3-9. Eighty players were invited to Red Deer and worked through high intensity on-ice sessions, as well as off-ice training and classroom sessions.


“Alberta has a lot of talented players in this age group, we saw it at the Alberta Cup and we saw it at summer camp,” said James Poole, Head Coach of Team Alberta Under-16 Male. “We’re constructing a team that can compete at an elite level in short-term competition, the decisions don’t get easier and now it’s up to these 32 players to show us why they belong in the jersey.”


Team Alberta, fueled by Gatorade, is slated to compete at the WHL Cup, October 17-22 in Red Deer, against Team B.C., Team Saskatchewan and Team Manitoba.

Hockey Alberta Foundation

All photos by LA Media.


Class of 2023 inducted into the AHHF

CHARLIE HUDDY
... presented by Mark Spector

TIM HUNTER
... presented by Al Coates

KAREN KOST
... presented by Scott Robinson

BOBBY OLYNYK
... presented by Mike Rogers

EARL INGARFIELD SR
Represented by grandchildren Ralph Thrall IV,
Amara Thrall and daughter Rae Anne Thrall
... presented by Gregg Pilling

JOHN UTENDALE
Represented by son Robb Utendale and
wife Mickey Utendale
... presented by Allan Mowbray

EDMONTON CHIMOS - 1983-93
... presented by Mel Davidson

DON GATTO
Inaugural recipient of Robert Clark Legacy Award
... presented by Norma Clark and Bob Bartlett

CANMORE – Six individuals and the teams comprising a “decade of excellence” in women’s hockey were inducted into the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame on Sunday evening.

The Class of 2023 features three former National Hockey League players (including two Stanley Cup champions), an official who worked nationally and internationally in her 34-year career, a long-time volunteer and builder of U18 AAA hockey, the first Black hockey player to sign an NHL contract, and the best women’s hockey club in Alberta between 1983 and 1993.

Charlie Huddy, Tim Hunter, Earl Ingarfield Sr., Karen Kost, Bobby Olynyk, John Utendale and the Edmonton Chimos were enshrined in Alberta’s hockey history during the AHHF Gala at the Coast Hotel in Canmore.

The Gala was hosted by Hockey Alberta and the Hockey Alberta Foundation. Ryan Leslie, NHL host on Sportsnet, was the emcee for the evening.

As the inductees were recognized, many memories and stories were shared, but a common theme in their acceptance speeches was the importance of family and others around them in the success the inductees enjoyed during their careers.

CHARLIE HUDDY

Charlie Huddy was one of seven Edmonton Oilers to be a member of all five of the franchise’s Stanley Cup winning teams (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1990), and the NHL’s first recipient of the Plus/Minor Award in 1983. He played for 11 seasons and then served as an assistant coach for 23 years in the NHL.

Charlie recalled how he wasn’t drafted in 1979, and that he really got lucky because his outstanding career with the Oilers started when they offered him a $5,000 signing bonus.

“You don’t win that many Stanley Cups without a lot of great teammates over the years,” Huddy said, also reflecting on the coaches behind the bench – Glen Sather, Ted Green and John Muckler.

TIM HUNTER

Tim Hunter spent more than four decades in the NHL and WHL as a player and coach, helping bring a new focus to smart technology to the sport. In 1989, he lifted the Stanley Cup with the Calgary Flames and continues his engagement in the community as an active alumnus.

He opened by reminding everyone that the adage that it takes a community to raise a child also applies to hockey players, and that he had a lot of help along the way. In addition to his family, the sacrifices made by his parents, and his “adopted” family, the Hamiltons, he had humorous thank yous for a couple of members of the AHHF induction committee.

He thanked Peter Maher for making his 10 second shifts sound impressive on Flames broadcasts, and Mike Rogers for operating a hockey school that he attended between the ages of 10-12 years

EARL INGARFIELD SR.

Earl Ingarfield Sr. played in the NHL for 13 seasons, including being the first player selected in the Pittsburgh Penguins expansion draft. In retirement, Earl scouted and coached with the New York Islanders.

Earl was unable to attend, and was represented by his daughter Rae Anne Thrall, and grandchildren Amara Thrall and Ralph Thrall IV. Ralph talked about how without the support Earl’s family and teammates, none of this would have been possible.

“He is an amazing person and has been a great role model for all of us,” said Ralph.

KAREN KOST

Karen Kost spent 34 years as an official and leader in training and mentoring officials across Alberta and Canada. Karen worked almost every level of hockey nationally and internationally.

She recalled how, at 14, she convinced her mother to let her get into competitive sports in the Peterborough, ON area, and then, a few years later after moving to Calgary, she was the only female in her officiating clinic in Calgary.

“I’ve been surrounded by tremendous and encouraging individuals,” said Kost, including a number officials leaders in the province such as Ed Yee, Jim Rutherford, Ernie Boruk, John Jacobs, Curtis Nichols, George McCorry, and Dave Ganley.

BOBBY OLYNYK

Bobby Olynyk (Bobby O) remains a dedicated volunteer in the game after nearly 60 years. He is well known for his role as a builder and leader of what is now known as the Alberta Elite Hockey League U18 AAA division.

“I’m standing here tonight because of many others. The players I coached, their parents, managers, club administrators,” he said, along with many others including league governors, business people who have supported his scholarship golf tournament, and, of course, his family.

Bobby also shared a lot of memories from his six decades in the sport – including a 1971 fire that burned down the arena in the middle of a playoff game where John Davidson was and the aftermath of the 2010 Olympics when Hayley Wickenheiser acknowledged the Alberta Midget Hockey League for exhibition games played against the national team in preparation for the Olympics.

JOHN UTENDALE

John Utendale was the first Black hockey player to sign an NHL contract. While he never played in the NHL, John was a trailblazer in the game in Canada and United States. He was the first Black member of the U.S. men’s coaching staff as a member of the “Miracle on Ice” Olympic champions in 1980.

John, who died in 2006, was represented by his wife Mickey and son Robb Utendale. Robb reflected on recent accolades that have been bestowed on his father, including being honoured by the Washington State Legislature, the Seattle Kraken, and Western Washington Athletics Hall of Fame.

“But this one seems the most appropriate because our family is all Albertans,” said Robb.

He also pointed to the key role played by his mother in John’s career, as she worked full time in support of John’s career, and his career after hockey which included earning three post-secondary degrees.

“She held down the fort with two young boys at home. It was the full dedication of my mother that allows my father to get recognized tonight,” said Robb.

EDMONTON CHIMOS – A decade of excellence – 1983-93

The Edmonton Chimos club was the longest running Senior Women’s AAA hockey program in Alberta. But the organization’s 1983-1993 era was unparalleled, as the Chimos captured every Hockey Alberta Provincial Championship (Senior A, Female AA, Female AAA) and three Abby Hoffman Cup National Women’s championships (1984, 1985, 1992).

Shirley Cameron recalled the key volunteer roles played by the coaches, assistant coaches and trainers, who not only didn’t get paid, but covered their own expenses.

She also paid tribute to the decade of Chimos teams from 1973-83, who set the foundation for the decade of excellence.

“They are the women who forged the path. They set the direction for this team to be as successful as we were, and I hope we passed that on to the next decade of Chimos teams,” said Cameron.

CTV NEWS STORY – JULY 16 >

For more information on the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame and the Class of 2023, check the AHHF website at ahhf.ca.


In addition to the recognition of the class of 2023, the inaugural recipient of the Robert Clark Legacy Award was announced – Don Gatto.

Gatto served as President of Hockey Alberta (1992-93) and was the first-ever chair of the Hockey Alberta Foundation. He is a Life Member of Hockey Alberta and an Honoured Member of the AHHF (class of 2007). His hockey involvement also included work at the national level as chair of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association Minor Council, and at the local level where he volunteered as a coach and for 11 years and served as the Director of Crossfield and District Minor Hockey.

Gatto was named Lethbridge’s Kinsmen Sports Person of the Year in 1998, and has been involved with numerous Lethbridge sports organizations, including the Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame, University of Lethbridge Hockey Alumni, Lethbridge Sports Council, and the Lethbridge Hockey Hounds, helping raise over $1 million for hockey groups in southern Alberta.

(All photos by LA Media.)

Hockey Alberta Foundation

Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Gala teeing off with Hockey Alberta Foundation Golf Classic

CANMORE – Hockey Alberta and the Foundation are teeing up for three days in Canmore, July 16-18.

Sunday night the hockey community celebrates the Class of 2023 at the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Gala. Seven new honoured members are joining the AHHF, and the recipient of the inaugural Robert Clark Legacy Award will be announced.

On Monday and Tuesday, teams hit the links for the Hockey Alberta Foundation Golf Classic. Thirty-eight teams tee off at the Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club and Silvertip Golf Resort for the Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of year.

Proceeds from the three-day event go towards the Every Kid Every Community program, to help provide every child in Alberta the opportunity to play hockey and experience the game.

Because of events like the Hall of Fame Gala and Golf Classic, the Hockey Alberta Foundation offers scholarships to the Future Leaders program and support organizations such as:

  • Sports Central provides sports equipment to kids in need at no cost. Based in Edmonton, volunteers also accept gently-used equipment by donation.
  • Calgary Flames Sports Bank helps kids and families across southern Alberta access equipment at no cost. The organization works with KidSport Calgary to breakdown the cost of fees and equipment to ensure every child has an opportunity to play sports. The Calgary Flames Sports Bank operates with the help of volunteers and donations.
  • Free Play for Kids Inc. provides programs and spaces free of charge that are accessible and inclusive to encourage youth to keep playing.
  • HEROS Hockey uses the hockey to teach life-skills and empower marginalized youth. The organization provides free hockey programming for at risk children and youth, offering a safe and stable environment for them to grow, connect and succeed.
  • The Ladd Foundation gives youth access to resources that support their health and wellbeing. Targeted to youth hockey players, parents and coaches, the foundation promotes healthy development and mental health.

Thank you to the partners who make these events possible:

Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Gala:

ATB

Bo’s Bar and Stage

Calgary Flames

Calgary Flames Alumni

Calgary Flames Foundation

Earls

Edmonton Oilers

Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation

Encore Event Management

Independent Jewellers

Prism Flow Products

Quikcard Solutions

Service Experts

Troubled Monk

Hockey Alberta Foundation Golf Classic:

ATB Wealth

ATB

AlStar

Birchcliff Energy

Bo’s Bar and Stage

Calgary Flames Foundation

Cannex Contracting

Cochrane Minor Hockey Association

Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation

Goal Line Partners

The House of Leaders

HyTech Production Ltd.

McCaw’s Blasting & Drilling

P3 Sports Inc.

Players Bench Team Apparel

Prism Flow Products

Q2 Artificial Lift Services

Red Deer Lock and Safe

RSM Canada LLP

Silvertip Golf Resort

Tidewater

Troubled Monk

Vada Capital

Team Alberta

Image: U16 and U18 Female Summer Camp with female hockey player


Team Alberta Female Summer Camp Kick Off

RED DEER – One hundred and sixteen athletes are gathering in Red Deer for the 2023 Team Alberta Female Summer Camp, July 11-16.

The Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre welcomes 72 Under-18 athletes on Tuesday, while 44 Under-16 players arrive on Thursday to kick off camp.

Eight goalies, 24 defence and 40 forwards are attending the Under-18 camp. Athletes will be evaluated and shortlisted for Fall Camp, in hopes of securing a position on Team Alberta to compete at the national event this fall.

Meanwhile, the Under-16 Camp serves as a development camp to introduce athletes to the Team Alberta process. Six goalies, 14 defence and 24 forwards will experience their first Team Alberta camp.

Both camps feature on and off-ice sessions and games. Games are being live streamed on HockeyTV.

Athletes attending camps were evaluated throughout the season and at past Hockey Alberta experiences. All athletes who are registered with a Hockey Alberta or Hockey Canada sanctioned minor hockey association are eligible for Team Alberta programming.

Team Alberta Female U18 Summer Camp Invites >

Team Alberta Female U16 Summer Camp Invites >