RED DEER - The fifth season in Alberta Female Hockey League history is set to begin across the province this weekend.

The U18 AAA regular season and U15 AA exhibition season kicks off on October 30, while the U18 AA exhibition season starts on October 31. Regular season games for U15 AA and U18 AA begin on November 13 and 14, respectively.

The U18 AAA season gets going on Friday night with a game between the Edmonton Pandas and the St. Albert Slash. Saturday and Sunday will include the Calgary Fire taking on the Rocky Mountain Raiders twice, and two more games between the Pandas and the Slash.

Meanwhile, each U15 AA team will get their exhibition season started this weekend, with two games on Friday, and four games on Saturday. The U18 AA exhibition season will begin with five games on Saturday and one game on Sunday.

The Alberta Elite Hockey League season has been underway since October 14, and will continue with games this weekend. The U16 AAA regular season will begin with nine games on Saturday and seven more on Sunday. The U18 AAA and U15 AAA divisions are off this weekend, but are scheduled to continue play on November 5 and 8, respectively.

For a pair of best friends whose hockey journeys have been nearly identical, it’s only fitting they were both selected just five picks apart at the 2020 NHL Entry Draft in October.

When Jake Neighbours and Ozzy Wiesblatt were drafted 26th overall and 31st overall by the St. Louis Blues and San Jose Sharks, respectively, it was not only a tremendous moment for each athlete, but a chance to celebrate each other’s accomplishments.

The two have been nearly inseparable since first hitting the ice together with the Calgary U18 AAA Buffaloes in 2017, and have been a big part of each other’s hockey experiences. Getting to share in each other’s big moment was a familiar, but welcome feeling.

"To go through all these experiences with your best friend is definitely something you cherish," Neighbours said during a recent interview where he and Wiesblatt joined the Centre Ice Podcast.

Whether it was suiting up together for Team Alberta at the 2017 WHL Cup in Calgary, for Team Canada at the 2019 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, or for Team Red at the 2020 CHL/NHL Top Prospects game, Neighbours and Wiesblatt have spent plenty of time together on hockey’s biggest stages.

But, they’ve also been on opposing sides of centre ice a number of times, including at the 2017 Alberta Cup, the 2018 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, and for the last two seasons in the Western Hockey League, with Neighbours a member of the Edmonton Oil Kings, and Wiesblatt with the Prince Albert Raiders.

Although they both admitted there was a bit of a competition to see who would be selected first, the pair agree that it was just a minor detail.

"I was lucky enough to see Jake get picked ahead of me," Wiesblatt said. "I’m happy for him, and it just about brought a little tear to my eye seeing him get picked, it was a special moment for him and his family. We’re competitive, but also very supportive at the same time."

Neighbours echoed that sentiment, adding that he and his family were almost more excited to hear Wiesblatt’s named called by the San Jose Sharks a few picks later.

"I think both of us were kind of hoping we’d be the one to (be drafted) higher, but we knew going into it that we’d probably be pretty close in terms of numbers and where we were going, so we were happy for each other," Neighbours said. "I remember when I found out Ozzy was going, it was almost a bigger reaction from my family and I than when I went, so we have very supportive families, and obviously going in both directions we’re happy for each other."

Although the two have only been close friends since first playing together for the Calgary Buffaloes as 15 year-olds, they’ve leaned on each other heavily for support, a relationship they both point to as a major key to their success both on and off the ice.

"It’s special," said Wiesblatt. "We’ve been through basically everything together with hockey. If it’s Team Alberta events or Team Canada events, we’re going through it together, so it’s definitely made it easier to have someone to talk to and go through it with."

Neighbours said the two maintain a close relationship during the season, but there are times where their competitive nature outweighs their friendship.

"We lean on each other for support, but we are competitors," Neighbours said. "After every game, we’re always texting each other, seeing how each other did. But, I don’t think (Prince Albert) versus Edmonton’s been the friendliest of games over the past couple of years, it’s been two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference going at it, so it’s always a good game with a lot of intensity, and we tend to lean towards our intense and competitive sides more than our friendship during those games."

But, Wiesblatt adds that the competitiveness between the two is a welcome addition, and is a big reason for his success.

"Having a best friend and someone you train with every day that pushes you, I think we can both say we’re very lucky to have that," said Wiesblatt. "It’s been awesome. I haven’t really had a friend that is as competitive as Jake is, and that wants to beat me in every single thing, so it’s fun, and it’s definitely shaped me into the person I am today."

While the two have been through more together in the last few years than many friendships will see in a lifetime, Neighbours looks back fondly on when it all started, and said he can’t wait to see what the future holds.

"We started talking when we were about 13 or 14, I think, and we finally got to meet each other at the Calgary Buffaloes tryouts, and I guess the rest is history. We just kind of hit it off right away, and basically did everything together, and I became this guy’s Uber. Proud to be it though, and I’m looking forward to more Uber rides."

RED DEER - NHL Central Scouting has released its October ’Players to Watch’ list, with 18 Albertans making an appearance.

Two Albertan skaters are listed as ’A’ prospects; defenceman Corson Ceulemans and forward Dylan Guenther.

Goaltender Sebastian Cossa the lone Albertan in the ’B’ prospect category, with fifteen more listed as ’C’ prospects.

The ‘A’ rating indicates a first round candidate, a ‘B’ rating indicates a second or third round candidate, and a ‘C’ rating indicates a fourth, fifth, or sixth round candidate.

The full list of Albertans named to the Players to Watch list can be found below:

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta is hosting the 113th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, November 21. This year’s meeting will be held virtually, using Zoom, starting at 1:00 PM (MST).

It is important for Executive Members of member Minor Hockey Associations and Junior/Senior Club Teams to attend the AGM to exercise your right to vote in the elections and for Notices of Motion. It is also important for registered Accredited Schools, Para Hockey programs, Recreational Hockey programs and sanctioned leagues to attend in order to obtain valuable information.

For the purposes of this online meeting, voting will be conducted using the Sport Law Strategy Group’s Simply Voting platform. Only registered Voting Members who complete and submit this online AGM Registration form will be included in the voting list and entitled to vote. Please ensure your MHA/ Club Team President/ General Manager has completed the registration process, identifying your voting delegate prior to the November 11 registration deadline. Attendance and Voting Instructions will be sent to properly registered voting delegates after the registration deadline has passed.

Ad Hoc committee report on Membership definition >

Notices of Motion >

2020 Hockey Alberta Board of Directors Candidates >

2019 AGM Minutes >

2020 AGM Registration >

Please note that any overdue accounts must be paid in full for Members to be eligible to vote at the Annual General Meeting. Please refer to Article 4, 4.6 (b) of the Hockey Alberta Bylaws and Regulations for information about voting privileges/procedures.

For any further information please contact Michelle Skilnick ([email protected])

CALGARY - The Hockey Canada Foundation has launched its new $1 million Assist Fund to provide registration fee subsidies for qualified Canadians who are registered with Hockey Canada-sanctioned associations for the 2020-21 season.

“As a prominent national sports organization in the country, it’s Hockey Canada’s mission to lead, develop and promote positive hockey experiences,” said Tom Renney, chief executive officer of Hockey Canada. “It’s a goal that’s more important than ever, as COVID-19 has had a challenging impact on so many young people from coast-to-coast-to-coast.”

The Hockey Canada Foundation Assist Fund allows Canadians who meet the criteria and need a financial hockey assist to apply for up to $500 in registration fee reimbursements per player, provided the registration is with a Hockey Canada-sanctioned association.

To enhance the impact and support for local communities, Canadians can also donate to the Assist Fund, with 100% of all donated funds reaching young Canadians. The Hockey Canada Foundation will absorb all administration costs associated with the fund. Donations can be made at HockeyCanada.ca/AssistFund.

A line-up of hockey heroes is championing the Hockey Canada Foundation Assist Fund. All three have provided and known the importance of assists and community support, on and off the ice.

• Jarome Iginla (St. Albert, Alta.) - Hockey Canada alumnus, member of the Class of 2020 for the Hockey Hall of Fame, two-time Olympic gold medallist (2002, 2010), gold medallist at the 1997 IIHF World Championship, gold medallist at the 1996 IIHF World Junior Championship and provider of one of the most famous assists in Canadian hockey history, on the Golden Goal by Sidney Crosby at 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver
• Marie-Philip Poulin (Beauceville, Que.) - Captain of Canada’s National Women’s Team, two-time Olympic gold medallist (2010, 2014) and gold medallist at the 2012 IIHF Women’s World Championship
• Greg Westlake (Oakville, Ont.) - Member of Canada’s National Para Hockey Team, gold medallist at the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games and four-time gold medallist at the IPC World Para Hockey Championship (2008, 2011, 2013, 2017)

The Assist Fund was born from the ongoing commitment of the many partners of Hockey Canada and the Hockey Canada Foundation, including Bauer, BDO, Berkshire Hathaway, BFL CANADA, Canadian Tire, Chevrolet, CN, Hankook, Nike, OK Tire, Premium Brands, Scotiabank, TELUS, TIMBER MART, Tim Hortons, TSN and RDS.

“With job losses and reduced incomes affecting so many, young Canadians need our help more than ever to get back into hockey,” said Donna Iampieri, executive director of the Hockey Canada Foundation. “Our Assist Fund and the support of our amazing athletes and sponsors represents our combined ongoing commitment to providing access to the game.”

For more information about the Hockey Canada Assist Fund, or to apply or donate, visit HockeyCanada.ca/AssistFund.

Hockey Alberta has created a flow chart to help families navigate their way through the expectations and process when a player is showing symptoms or has been tested for COVID-19.

This chart will be updated, as required, based on changes to Alberta Health Services protocols.

Hockey Alberta is looking for an innovative and collaborative individual to join our team in the position of Coordinator, Member Services. The successful candidate will demonstrate integrity, possess a positive and enthusiastic attitude and be open minded and attentive to the changing environment and needs of Albertans.

This is a 10 month contract position based out of Red Deer, AB and will extend until September 2021. Under the direction of the Manager, Member Services, this position is responsible for leadership/support in Team & Player registration, insurance areas and general administrative support.

Apply Now >

RED DEER - There is one month remaining for coaches to complete their required qualifications.

Minor Hockey Associations (MHAs) and Club Teams must ensure all teams and/or groups meet the requirements outlined by Hockey Alberta before November 15. Any team/group not meeting the requirements outlined within the Hockey Alberta Regulations will be ineligible to participate in sanctioned hockey games.

Hockey Alberta offers a variety of Coach Clinics targeted to the age and level of the athletes coaches are leading. Hockey Canada’s coaching requirements vary depending on which age group a coach is working with.

A new addition to this season’s clinic list is the online HU - Planning a Safe Return to Hockey, which focuses on key information coaches and associations need to know in order to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 in the hockey environment. Head coaches at each level are required to finish this 20 minute course before the November 15 deadline.

View Coaching Requirements >

Coaches can register for clinics through Hockey Canada’s eHockey website by searching by clinic type and location. An individual must have an eHockey account created, with their profile linked to the account in order to see their coaching qualifications or register for a clinic. Please see instructions below on how to create an account and attach a participant profile:

1. Follow this link to access the eHockey login page.
2. Click “click here to create an account now”.
3. Follow instructions on screen to create an e-hockey account.
4. Select “add participant” and search yourself or player by name and date of birth.
5. You will click "select" to add yourself or player as a participant to the account.
6. Then you can click view profile to view history, Hockey ID, or sign up for a clinic.

In-person coaching clinics will still be hosted with physical distancing measures in place and reduced participants.

View Available Clinics >

RED DEER - Hockey is officially back in Alberta as the inaugural Alberta Elite Hockey League season gets underway across the province on Wednesday night.

The U18 AAA and U15 AAA schedules both kick off on October 14, while the U16 AAA season begins on October 31.

The U18 AAA season gets going with a pair of games between the St. Albert Nektar Raiders and the Grande Peace Ernie’s Sports Storm, and the CAC Gregg Distributors and the MLAC Beverly Optimists.

Meanwhile, three games are on tap in the U15 AAA division Wednesday night, with games between the NWCAA Flames and CNHA Sabres, the Fort Sask Rangers and St. Albert Gregg Distributors Sabres, and the CAC Legigh Cement and MLAC Scott Pump teams.

The Alberta Female Hockey League season also gets underway shortly. For the U18 AAA division, exhibition games will begin on October 17^th with the regular season kicking off October 30^th. The U18 AA and U15 AA divisions have exhibition games starting on October 30^th with regular season beginning November 30^th .

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta is now accepting nominations for Coach of the Month for the 2020-21 minor hockey season!

In a year with increased guidelines and responsibilities, coaches will be an integral part of minor hockey. Their countless hours and dedication provide the opportunity for over 60,000 kids in Alberta to play hockey in a safe and fun environment. Help us recognize a coach in your community by nominating him or her for the Hockey Alberta Coach of the Month, presented by Players Bench Team Apparel.

Nominate a Coach of the Month ›

Coaches will be selected throughout the hockey season and will receive a coaching package valued at over $500.

Get your nominations in early! Coaches not selected each month will be eligible until the end of the season.

RED DEER - It was a banner year for Alberta at the 2020 NHL Draft, with 17 Albertans drafted to 13 different teams.

After six Albertans were selected in round one of the draft on Tuesday night, 11 more were drafted in rounds two through seven on Wednesday.

Defenceman Luke Prokop was the first Albertan selected on Wednesday, going in the third round to the Nashville Predators. Garin Bjorklund was the lone Albertan goaltender selected in 2020, as the Washington Capitals took him in the sixth round, 179th overall.

The 17 Albertans drafted hail from 12 different Minor Hockey Associations, 15 are alumni of the Alberta Elite Hockey League, and 10 played for Team Alberta.

A full list of Albertans drafted can be found below:

RED DEER - It was an outstanding night for Albertans as the first round of the 2020 NHL Draft took place on Tuesday evening.

The first round of the draft, which was done virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, saw six athletes from Alberta drafted to five different teams.

Defenceman Jake Sanderson had the distinction of being the first Alberta product selected, going 5th overall to the Ottawa Senators. The Senators also took Ridly Greig 28th overall with their third pick of the first round.

Former CJHL Player of the Year Dylan Holloway was next off the board, going 14th overall to the Edmonton Oilers. Defenceman Kaiden Guhle was just a few picks behind, as the Montreal Canadiens drafted him with the 16th pick.

The St. Louis Blues selected Jake Neighbours 26th overall, and after the Senators drafted Greig, the San Jose Sharks wrapped up the first round by picking Ozzy Wiesblatt 31st overall.

All six players drafted in the first round are Alberta Elite Hockey League alumni, and also all suited up for Team Alberta (Holloway in 2016, and Sanderson, Guhle, Neighbours, Greig and Wiesblatt in 2017).

Rounds two through seven of the 2020 NHL Draft will conclude on Wednesday.

When NHL Central Scouting released its final rankings in April, 24 Albertans appeared on the list - 20 skaters, and four goaltenders.

Among those is Team Alberta alumnus and Prince Albert Raiders defenceman, Kaiden Guhle, who came in at number eight among North American skaters, and is projected by many to be drafted in the first round.

On the eve of the NHL draft, Guhle said the nerves hadn’t quite kicked in yet.

“I think I’m just a lot more excited, than anything," he said. "Waited a long time for this, got pushed back a bit, and I think I can speak for every kid in saying we’re just happy to finally have it here and to get things started.The nerves are there, but right now I’m not feeling them a whole lot. I bet (Tuesday) when I wake up, getting up early and waiting the whole day for it to happen, I’m sure the nerves will come pretty strong, but right now I think my mom’s a lot more nervous than me."

The 2020 NHL Draft will have a much different look than any other draft. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s draft will be done virtually, much like the 2020 NFL Draft.

Guhle said that although it’s disappointing not to be in Montreal as originally planned, he’s looking forward to sharing the experience at home with family and friends.

"I think in a way, it works out," he said. "I know if I was going to Montreal, you could only bring a handful of family members, you don’t want to pack the whole thing. I’m having 15 people coming to my house (on Tuesday), so I’ll have a lot of people there who have supported me through my whole hockey career."

Guhle adds that the pre-draft process has also been quite different than normal, but it’s still been a memorable experience for him.

"It was a lot of virtual meetings, a lot of Zoom calls," he said. "Obviously, you’d like to meet the teams in person, if we were in Montreal, I’d maybe meet a couple teams right before for one last chat. It’s been a big honour to talk to a lot of those teams, you never know who you’re going to go to, so I want to leave a good impression on all of them and show them my personality and what type of person I am."

The Guhle family is familiar with the NHL Draft process, as Kaiden’s older brother Brendan was drafted 51st overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2015.

Guhle said the influence of his brother, who now plays for the Anaheim Ducks, has been critical to his growth as a player.

"He’s been massive," he said. "I’d be lying if I said he wasn’t the biggest reason (I started playing), he’s the reason I picked up a hockey stick. Watching him growing up, I’ve always wanted to follow his footsteps in that way. He’s been huge for my hockey career, he’s talked to me a lot about this whole draft process – the ups and the downs, teams maybe getting under your skin to see how you react, just trying to keep me level-headed though the whole thing."

Guhle isn’t the only member of the Prince Albert Raiders hailing from Alberta waiting to hear their name called at the draft, as teammate Ozzy Wiesblatt is also expected to be drafted.

"I’ll definitely text him during the draft," Guhle said. "We’ve definitely talked about it and leaned on each other, we’ve been communicating a lot about this. I think there’s a bit of friendly competition, we’re both pretty competitive guys. We like to go at it at practice, and like to make each other mad – we both compete very hard, we both want to make each other better and that’s the only way you’re going to do it. I’ll definitely shoot him a text and see how he is on draft day, I’m sure he’ll be pretty nervous, just like me, so it’s good to get to go through that with him, and get to go through the whole experience with one of my best buddies."

Although it’s easy for a player to speculate as to which team they could end up on, Guhle said he’s not focused on that, and is going to just sit back and enjoy the ride.

"I’m happy with whatever team picks me, I have no preference to where I go," he said. "I think any team that picks me, I am very lucky to be that pick."

Round one of the 2020 NHL Draft kicks off Tuesday night at 5:00 p.m., with rounds two through seven to be held on Wednesday, starting at 9:30 a.m.

RETURN TO HOCKEY UPDATE

Hockey Alberta has released an updated version of the Return to Hockey plan.

NEW FEATURES OF THE PLAN >

INTRODUCING CENTRE ICE: THE HOCKEY ALBERTA PODCAST

Hockey Alberta is excited to launch Centre Ice: The Hockey Alberta Podcast, featuring the latest news and views on amateur hockey across the province.

CENTRE ICE: EPISODE ONE >

BARRY MEDORI HONOURED WITH HOCKEY CANADA AWARD

On August 28, Hockey Canada announced Hockey Alberta Coach Mentor Barry Medori as the 2020 recipient of the Gordon Juckes Award.

READ THE FULL STORY >

HOCKEY CANADA COMMUNITY, PRESENTED BY SCOTIABANK, LAUNCHED FOR 2020-21 SEASON

Hockey Canada and Scotiabank, the Official Bank of Hockey Canada, have teamed up to deliver the Hockey Canada Community, an online destination to share and celebrate great Canadian hockey stories.

VIEW FULL DETAILS >

• 2021 World Junior Hockey Championship to be held in Edmonton Hub
• Playing minor hockey amid a pandemic
• Airdrie AAA teams from the ACAA select 2020-2021 rosters
• Kings Club trying for normality in abnormal times
• Endmoor opens up Minor Hockey registration for U7 and U9
• Calgary Minor Hockey grad Cale Makar wins Calder Trophy
• Time to hit the ice in Hanna
• Grande Prairie Minor Hockey players participate in Zoom call with NHL player

Centre Ice is the brand-new Hockey Alberta podcast, featuring the latest news and views on amateur hockey across the province, with new episodes on the first and third Thursday of the month. Subscribe now on your favourite podcast app!

Episode ONe:

The inaugural episode of Centre Ice features Hockey Alberta CEO Rob Litwinski, and the impact of COVID-19 on hockey in Alberta. Rob discusses the postponement/cancellation of hockey on March 12, what’s transpired since then, and takes a deeper dive into the Return to Hockey Plan, and what it means for the future of hockey.

Episode Links: Return To Hockey Plan > | Hockey is Back > | New for 2020 > | Coach Clinics > | Barry Medori Tribute >

RED DEER - On August 28, Hockey Canada announced Hockey Alberta Coach Mentor Barry Medori as the 2020 recipient of the Gordon Juckes Award.

In honour of Gordon Juckes, Hockey Canada proudly recognizes an individual for their outstanding contribution to the development of amateur hockey in Canada at the national level. Nominees are from the fields of research, sports medicine, psychology, coaching, officiating, administration or related categories.

Lifelong learner, passionate, dedicated, mentor, are only a handful of words that are consistently used to describe Barry Medori. Committed to sharing his knowledge with coaches, players, parents and anyone else open and willing to listen and learn, Barry has left a lasting impression on everyone who has had the opportunity to work alongside him.

Barry’s wealth of knowledge in both the male and female game is unparalleled in Alberta and nationally. His experience has helped launch countless players and coaches to their professional careers while installing a set of core values that benefits all in their everyday life. As detailed below, his contributions at the local, regional, provincial, national and international level have benefited all that have worked with him.

Hockey Alberta would like to congratulate Barry Medori on a very well-deserved honour, and sincerely thank him for everything he does for the sport in Alberta, and in Canada.

Professional:

2008 – Current: High-Performance Coach Mentor, Hockey Alberta
Coach Mentor for Male/Female Canada Winter Games teams (2011/15/19)
Coach Mentor for Male Female Alberta Winter Games teams (2010/12/14/16/18)
Coach Mentor for Male U18 Nationals (2009/11/12/13/15/16/17)
Coach Mentor Male WHL Cup (2009/11/12/13/15/16/17/19)

2001 – 2013: Coordinator / Head Instructor, Parkland Hockey Academy
Identified by Paul Carson as a model Hockey Canada Skill Academy

2001 – 2005: Assistant Principal, Woodhaven Junior High School

1989 – 2000: Assistant Principal, Blueberry Community School

Coaching Experience:

2007 – 2011: Head Coach, Onoway Ice Dogs Senior AA team

2004: Assistant Coach, Team Canada U22 Female

2003: Coach Coordinator, Hockey Alberta
Assistant Coach, Team Alberta Canada Winter Games

2003 – 2008: Head Coach / GM, Edmonton Chimos Senior Female AAA

2002 – 2003: Mentor Coach, Alberta Cup, Hockey Alberta

2002: Head Coach, Team Pacific U17 World Cup Challenge

2001 – 2003: Assistant Coach, NAIT OOKs College team

2000 – 2001: Head Coach, Drayton Valley Junior A Hockey team

1999 – 2000: Assistant Coach, Drayton Valley Junior A Hockey team

International Experience:

2011: Coach Mentor, Government of Alberta – China Exchange

2003: Head Coach, IIHF Youth Hockey Development Camp - Finland

Hockey Alberta wants to remind you that Hockey is Back.

- Minor Hockey has started.

- Travel is permitted.

- Tiering games will happen.

Hockey Alberta under the guidance of the Government of Alberta and Hockey Canada has developed a comprehensive Return to Hockey Plan.

The plan has been designed to ensure the safety of the players, coaches, officials, volunteers and all involved in the game, is the top priority.

It is a document that Hockey Alberta will continue to review, adapt and evolve as the COVID-19 situation and guidelines implemented by the Government of Alberta and Hockey Canada change.

But, in short - HOCKEY IS BACK.

TIERING GAMES WILL HAPPEN

Group: Minor Hockey

Tiering Phase: Competition Cohorts (Pairs and/ or Groups of Teams)

Dates: Teams Selected & Ready to Participate by November

Important to Note:

• Hockey Alberta and our Minor Leagues have a plan for a transition into a ‘Modified Competition Season’.
• Using existing cohort guidelines from AHS, teams will be grouped to participate in Tiering play.
• Teams must be prepared for Tiering Play by ensuring they take a 14-day break after any Exhibition Play.
• Leagues will switch Competition Cohorts within Tiering Play by utilizing a 14-day break from cohort activity.

TRAVEL IS PERMITTED

Important to Remember for Minor Hockey:

• AHS has removed the limitation of cohort groups remaining in respective health zones, when Cohort Guidelines are followed.
• NO TOURNAMENTS are permitted at this time, as they DO NOT comply with Cohort Guidelines.
• Travel will be permitted. Hockey Alberta and its leagues are working together on timelines, and exhibition games could occur as early as October’.
• When travel occurs, all teams must follow the proper Cohort Guidelines – a 14 day break when switching to play a new team.

Related Links:

• AHS Sport and Recreation Guidelines

MINOR HOCKEY HAS STARTED

Current Phase: Prep skates/ Physically Distanced Sorting (try outs, camps, etc) are currently in progress

Rough dates: September 7 – October 8

Related Links:

• Player Selection Resource
• Lane Formations
• Station Formations
• Physical Distance Practice Tips

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta is pleased to announce registration for Coaching Clinics is now open for the 2020-21 season.

Hockey Alberta offers a variety of Coach Clinics targeted to the age and level of the athletes coaches are leading. Hockey Canada’s coaching requirements vary depending on which age group a coach is working with.

Minor Hockey Associations (MHAs) and Club Teams must ensure all teams and/or groups meet the requirements outlined by Hockey Alberta before November 15. Any team/group not meeting the requirements outlined within the Hockey Alberta Regulations will be ineligible to participate in sanctioned hockey games.

A new addition to this season’s clinic list is the online HU - Planning a Safe Return to Hockey, which focuses on key information coaches and associations need to know in order to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 in the hockey environment. Head coaches at each level are required to finish this 20 minute course before the November 15 deadline.

View Coaching Requirements >

Coaches can register for clinics through Hockey Canada’s eHockey website by searching by clinic type and location. An individual must have an eHockey account created, with their profile linked to the account in order to see their coaching qualifications or register for a clinic. Please see instructions below on how to create an account and attach a participant profile:

1. Follow this link to access the eHockey login page.
2. Click “click here to create an account now”.
3. Follow instructions on screen to create an e-hockey account.
4. Select “add participant” and search yourself or player by name and date of birth.
5. You will click "select" to add yourself or player as a participant to the account.
6. Then you can click view profile to view history, Hockey ID, or sign up for a clinic.

In-person coaching clinics will still be hosted with physical distancing measures in place and reduced participants.

Please note that more clinics will be added in the coming weeks as facilities are confirmed.

View Available Clinics >

For more information, please contact [email protected].

CALGARY - Hockey Canada and Scotiabank, the Official Bank of Hockey Canada, have teamed up to deliver the Hockey Canada Community, an online destination to share and celebrate great Canadian hockey stories.

Beginning this month, Hockey Canada Community, presented by Scotiabank, will feature a revamped version of ‘Tom’s Talks’, a popular video series where Hockey Canada CEO Tom Renney will deliver impactful messages related to hockey, as well as two monthly video or written feature stories about Canadians dedicating their time and passion to the game. All videos and written content will appear on a new-and-improved website.

“The Hockey Canada Community, presented by Scotiabank, will highlight the incredible individuals from coast to coast to coast that are helping make the game special for all those who wish to participate,” said Renney. “Hockey doesn’t happen if not for the people that dedicate their time and effort to making the game better, which is why Hockey Canada and Scotiabank are excited to reward the individuals that work tirelessly to create positive hockey experiences in their communities.”

In addition, Hockey Canada and Scotiabank will recognize and honour a monthly Hockey Canada Champion that is making a significant impact on the game in their community. The Champion will be presented with a Hockey Canada jersey, a Scotiabank prize pack and will have a video feature produced about their involvement in the game.

Hockey Canada Champions will include players, coaches, officials, parents, guardians volunteers or any individual who demonstrates a passion for the game and has dedicated time to helping the hockey community. Champions will be nominated by Hockey Canada’s 13 Members or through public entry using the online nomination form.

Nominate Your Champion >

TORONTO, ON - Applications are now being accepted for the Hockey Equipment Relief Program, orchestrated by Bauer Hockey, Hockey Canada, the National Hockey League (NHL), and National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA).

Originally announced on July 30, the goal of the program is to help communities and families financially impacted by COVID-19 get their kids back on the ice. The program is an equipment donation initiative that includes $2 million of hockey gear, with upwards of 7,000 sets of gear to be distributed to families and communities most in need in the seven Canadian NHL cities, as well as other regions.

The application period for the Hockey Equipment Relief Program will open on September 18, allowing a number of organizations across the country to apply to be a Donation Partner. The application period will remain open until September 28, followed by equipment distribution between Oct. 12, 2020 and March 1, 2021.

Donation partners can include:

• Minor Hockey Associations (MHA)
• Youth organizations or groups ie. YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, Pond Hockey
• Minority communities and groups

APPLY NOW >

CALGARY - In response to the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has announced the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship will be played in Edmonton without fans, with the 2022 tournament being held in Edmonton and Red Deer.

FULL STATEMENT FROM HOCKEY CANADA:

The following are statements on behalf of Hockey Canada from Tom Renney, chief executive officer, Scott Smith, president and chief operating officer, and Scott Salmond, senior vice-president of national teams, in response to the announcement by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) on the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship being played in Edmonton without fans, and the decision to hold the 2022 World Juniors in Edmonton and Red Deer.

“After careful consideration and monitoring of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been determined the best course of action is to prepare to host the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship in Edmonton without fans in attendance. A tremendous amount of work has been put into the planning of the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship, and we appreciate the IIHF’s consideration of our hosting proposal for the event. Hockey Canada believes it will be able to host a safe and successful event for all participants and the community at large this year by following strict safety protocols set forth by the appropriate health authorities. These are extraordinary times, and we understand the World Juniors will look different this year while being played in one venue with additional safety precautions. We have no doubt that passionate hockey fans everywhere will still be able to enjoy this annual holiday tradition through complete event coverage from our broadcast partners, TSN and RDS, and we look forward to hosting this prestigious event this December in Edmonton.” - Tom Renney on the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship

“Hockey Canada wishes to extend its gratitude to the IIHF for its careful consideration of the status and hosting model of the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship, as well as the Government of Alberta for its support and confidence in Hockey Canada’s plans for the 2021 World Juniors. Although it is disappointing for passionate hockey fans to not be able to attend in person this year, we are thrilled to announce that the IIHF World Junior Championship will return to Edmonton and Red Deer in December 2021. Hockey Canada will continue to work with the Oilers Entertainment Group, the Red Deer Rebels, the cities of Edmonton and Red Deer, our broadcast partners and all event partners to prepare for a world-class experience for fans at the 2022 World Juniors.” - Scott Smith on the 2021 and 2022 IIHF World Junior Championships

“Although the World Juniors will look and feel different for the athletes and staff that will be selected to represent Canada at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship, we are grateful to be able to compete on home ice as Canada’s National Junior Team prepares to defend the gold medal in Edmonton. We also look forward to returning to the cities of Edmonton and Red Deer in 2022, as we know both communities and all event partners will deliver a world-class experience to players, teams, fans and volunteers alike. As we prepare to compete in consecutive tournaments on home ice, Hockey Canada extends its appreciation to the Canadian Hockey League for its support of the National Junior Team and the IIHF World Junior Championship.” - Scott Salmond on the 2021 and 2022 IIHF World Junior Championships

RED DEER – As officials from across Alberta prepare for the 2020-21 season, a special emphasis is being put on battling racism and inequality on the ice.

A number of topics were covered during the annual Officials Leadership Weekend (which was done virtually this year), with social injustice and inequality at the forefront.

Referee in Chief Craig Decoursey says equality on the ice begins with how officials treat each other.

“Part of your support will be ensuring you are inclusive, and supportive of your fellow officials, no matter their race or background,” he says. “Combating discrimination starts with us all working together to ensure a welcoming and safe refereeing environment.”

Sanjeev Bhagrath, a Sikh official from Edmonton, says he’s faced many challenges as an official who is a member of a visible minority.

“It is disappointing, unfortunate and disheartening the number of times I’ve had coaches, players and fans call me a Paki, Taliban member, or terrorist,” he says. “These comments have impacted me to the point where I’ve thought of quitting, and that I would never be accepted by the hockey world because of my colour.”

“However, my family and friends have always encouraged me to continue on and persevere,” Bhagrath says. “I will never understand why I have to be seen as a ‘brown official’ and not just ‘an official.’ We need change in hockey to make us all equal.”

In order to ensure a safe environment on the ice and respect amongst players, an increased emphasis is being put on officials to enforce discipline in situations of racism, discrimination, or inequality directed from one player, or a group of players, to another.

Charle Dumba, a Hockey Alberta official whose son, Matt, is currently working hard to lead change in the National Hockey League with the Hockey Diversity Alliance, offers his perspective as a parent and an official.

“As referees, we have a very important role to play, because we are at the grassroots level of where all of this starts,” he says. “As parents, we all want our kids to grow up a certain way, and be respectful, but we never really get to hear what they say on the ice, or hear what someone has said to them on the ice.”

“The Officials Leadership Weekend, organized by our Volunteer Leadership Coordinator, Chris Bruce, was a rousing success,” says Brett Kelly, Hockey Alberta’s Manager, Officiating. “Inequality and racism conversations are difficult to start, but that’s what we believe we’ve done – started the conversation around these vitally important causes.”

Kelly says the rule emphasis on inequality and discrimination, and the penalties associated with it, will be taught at all Hockey Alberta Officials clinics throughout the 2020-21 season.

VANCOUVER, BC - HeadCheck Health (‘HeadCheck’) and TeachAids launched a partnership to offer the interactive CrashCourse: Concussion Education (‘CrashCourse’) platform online through all HeadCheck products. Developed alongside leading medical, education, engineering, and science researchers and with input from their world-class coaches and student athletes, CrashCourse offers a unique educational experience that helps correct common myths and misconceptions to help better recognize and address symptoms of a concussion.

The relationship between the Alberta Female Hockey League (‘AFHL’) and HeadCheck means parents, coaches, and athletes can interact with the CrashCourse content online through the HeadCheck platform, at no additional cost. The result is a best-in-class system that connects all aspects of concussion education, reporting, and management.

A 2019 Journal of Pediatrics study found that in sex comparable sports, concussion rates were higher in girls than boys, and girls had a larger proportion of recurrent concussions.

TeachAids, a nonprofit leader in global education innovation, released CrashCourse to raise awareness of the latest science around concussions and shift the conversation away from fear and silence toward one of knowledge and empowerment. The base curriculum is offered in both HD and Virtual Reality and includes a short interactive film. Most recently, TeachAids launched the Brain Fly-Through product as part of the CrashCourse suite in collaboration with USA Archery, USA Artistic Swimming, USA Baseball, USA Bobsled & Skeleton, USA Cycling, USA Diving, USA Fencing, USA Field Hockey, USA Football, USA Gymnastics, USA Hockey, US Lacrosse, US Ski & Snowboard, US Speedskating, USA Taekwondo, USA Triathlon and USA Wrestling.

“At a time when online education is exceedingly important, it’s inspiring to see two great organizations joining together to educate athletes throughout Canada.” said Piya Sorcar, CEO of TeachAids.”

HeadCheck’s app and web products are used by sports organizations to execute concussion protocols, mitigate risk, and support athlete recovery. HeadCheck works closely with major sports leagues, medical professionals, and youth sports leaders to develop products that are grounded in research and easy to use in real-life situations. The integration of CrashCourse into HeadCheck will allow both organizations to work together to change the culture of concussion safety in sport.

“Education is integral to improving concussion safety and reporting,” said Harrison Brown, CEO of HeadCheck Health. “We’re very excited to integrate CrashCourse by TeachAids to provide education that connects with a younger generation.”

“Recognizing the increased risk of concussion in female athletes, we are constantly seeking innovative ways to elevate player education and safety,” said Kendall Newell, Manager of Female Hockey. “Integrating CrashCourse: Concussion Education into HeadCheck will help us provide a higher level of education.”

To learn more about how HeadCheck and Crash Course by TeachAids can support your organization, please contact [email protected] or visit www.headcheckhealth.com/crashcourse

About the Alberta Female Hockey League

The Alberta Female Hockey League (AFHL) is home to 30 teams at the U18 AAA, U18 AA, and U15 AA levels, providing a competitive platform for young aspiring female athletes to enhance their skills. A collection of 12 host associations around the province is committed to the growth and development of AAA and AA female hockey. Through dedicated staff and volunteers, the AFHL offers opportunities for female athletes to receive mentorship, off-ice education sessions, female-specific coaching, post-secondary exposure opportunities, academic & billet programs, and a competitive skill development atmosphere. For more information: https://www.afhl.ca/home/

About HeadCheck Health

At HeadCheck Health, our goal is simple: we want to prevent mismanaged head injuries. Whether at the amateur or professional level, HeadCheck’s end-to-end solutions enable organizations of all types and sizes to execute their current concussion protocols, support athlete recovery, and mitigate risk.

Join the wave of over 800 progressive organizations, from professional sports leagues like Major League Soccer to your community’s sports teams and clinics, that HeadCheck Health empowered to make a difference: http://www.headcheckhealth.com

About TeachAids

TeachAids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit social venture that creates breakthrough software addressing numerous persistent problems in health education around the world, including HIV/AIDS, concussion, and COVID-19 education. CrashCourse is the second free health education program launched by TeachAids in collaboration with Stanford University, following the global success of its award-winning HIV/AIDS interactive software, which is used in 82 countries around the world. For more information on TeachAids visit TeachAids.org or follow us on Twitter @TeachAids, Facebook @TeachAids, YouTube at TeachAids, and Instagram at @teachaids.

Media Contacts

Kari Kylo

604.889.8057

[email protected]

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta has updated its Return to Hockey Plan, with the following updates included in the SEPTEMBER 3 VERSION of the Return to Hockey Plan:

1. The document has been restructured with the Return to Hockey Programming section moved to Section 2.
2. In the Return to Hockey Programming section (Section 2):
   1. The Off-Season Skill Development component has been removed. All hockey activity should now operate under the rules and guidelines in the Development Season.
   2. Information on how to offer sessions via Physical Distancing can be found in the Development Season section.
   3. Guidelines regarding Sport Cohorts have been updated based on direction from the Government of Alberta.
   4. Registration protocol information has been updated.
   5. Clarification of activities allowed in each Return to Hockey component.
   6. Travel restrictions have been removed, based on Government of Alberta direction.
3. In Protocols and Safety (Section 3):
   1. Requirements for Record Keeping and Contact Tracing have been updated.
   2. The process and procedure for dealing with a sick participant and/ or a participant who tests positive for COVID-19 has been updated.
   3. Game protocols for coaches, officials and players have been added.
4. In Communications (Section 4):
   1. updated guidelines for identifying a Communications Lead within each organization.
   2. An updated Hockey Alberta FAQ document.
5. In Facilities and Spectators (Section 5), updated guidelines for spectators.
6. In Coaches and Team Officials (Section 6):
   1. updated information on coach clinics
   2. updated Hockey Alberta requirements with regard to masks, Cohorts and Physical Distancing.
7. A new section, On-Ice Officials (Section 7), with updated information pertaining to Officials.
8. Some appendices have been removed or renumbered.
9. Additional links are included to link directly to the Government of Alberta website.

The updated Return to Hockey Plan, and its appendices, can be accessed here:

RETURN TO HOCKEY PLAN - UPDATED >

The health and safety of all participants in the sport is of paramount importance in all activities outlined in the Return to Hockey Plan. The threats and challenges posed by COVID-19 require specific steps to be taken to allow hockey back on the ice, and this plan addresses those requirements.

The Return to Hockey Plan – including the timelines included within it – is subject to change, as new guidelines and requirements are put in place by the Government of Alberta.

RED DEER - Hockey Alberta is proud to introduce the new online home for the Alberta Female Hockey League (AFHL).

The new website, afhl.ca, is the official portal for the AFHL and its three divisions of sanctioned elite female hockey in Alberta.

In addition to the AFHL site, each of its three divisions has a new website: U15 AA (u15femaleaa.ca), U18 AA (u18femaleaa.ca) and U18 AAA (u18femaleaaa.ca).

Once hockey is able to restart, based on Hockey Alberta’s Return to Hockey Plan, each of the division sites will provide team and player information, schedules and statistics, and live game information.

The new websites are designed by HockeyTech. Games will be scored on HockeyTech’s LeagueStat platform, where all game, player, team and league statistics will be compiled and maintained. In addition, a mobile app is being designed that will link fans directly to the league and division website platforms.

Along with the new websites, the AFHL is present on Twitter, where hockey fans across the province and around the world can follow for all the latest league news and features.

HockeyTech and Hockey Alberta recently completed the new Alberta Elite Hockey League (AEHL) website, which was launched on September 2. Both the AEHL and AFHL also will be livestreaming games throughout the season via the HockeyTV platform. Game and broadcast schedules will be posted on the appropriate sites as scheduling is finalized.