Hockey Alberta honours 2025 Life Members and membership award recipients

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

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

YEAR IN REVIEW >

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camp Highlights Included:

• WHL Officiating expectations

• Knowledge of the WHL Officiating opportunities

• On-ice & off-ice skill development

• Designed to push you mentally and physically

• High caliber of competition among peers

• Develop the skills required to further your officiating career

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

Interested in Officiating?

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

LEARN MORE >

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key Outcomes for all Streams

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

Financial Assistance

Why register with a Hockey Alberta Program?

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

Is Hockey Safe?

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

PLAY HOCKEY MODEL >

MINOR HOCKEY >

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

Deadline for submission of proposals is Friday, June 20.

The full RFP document can be viewed below.

Hockey Alberta Vehicle RFP >

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

REGISTER >

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

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

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

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

THE NHL/NHLPA FIRST SHIFT MAKES HOCKEY:

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

PROGRAM CAPACITY:

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

PROGRAM PARAMETERS:

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

PARTICIPANT REGISTRATION FEE OF $299 INCLUDES:

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

Check out the May Edition of the Ice Times Newsletter.

Included this month:

• Jr Oilers - Esso Cup Champions
• Join the Oil Country challenge!
• 2025 AHHF Inductees Announced
  AND MORE!

ICE TIMES NEWSLETTER >

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This isn’t just the Oilers’ run.

This is Alberta’s moment.

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

Check your local registration dates here

New to Hockey? We’ve Got You Covered

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

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

Check out our resources for New Hockey Parents

Check out options for funding here

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

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

The streams include:

• Rec Hockey

• Pond Hockey

• Learn to Play

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

Discover the Play Hockey Model here

Don’t Wait – Register Today!

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

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

Nine post-secondary students from across Alberta have been recognized as the 2025 Future Leaders—an annual initiative that supports the next generation of hockey mentors and coaches.

The Future Leader Scholarship, made possible by the Hockey Alberta Foundation, celebrates individuals who are not only passionate about the sport but are actively committed to giving back to the game through leadership, coaching, and skill development.

These students are involved in various post-secondary institutions and have demonstrated a clear commitment to fostering the next wave of hockey talent in their communities:

• Avery Kendall (Olds College) – Team Alex

• Julie Wagner (Red Deer Polytechnic)

• Kyla Hansel (Red Deer Polytechnic)

• Owen Stevenson (University of Calgary)

• Kai Melnyk (NAIT) – Distinguished Future Leader – Mike Klass

• Matthew Kachmar (University of Alberta)

• Cassidy Rhodes (University of British Columbia) – Distinguished Future Leader – Larry Reid

• Tara Sanregret (Mount Royal University)

• Abby Robar (NAIT)

These recipients exemplify the qualities of leadership, community involvement, and a passion for developing future players through teaching, mentorship, and coaching. Whether through organizing minor hockey programs, working behind the bench, or creating inclusive opportunities for others to enjoy the game, these students are helping ensure that hockey continues to thrive for generations to come.

Today, we’re profiling the 2025 Mike Klass Distinguished Leader - Kai Melnyk.

The Mike Klass Distinguished Future Leader Scholarship honours the memory of a man who left a lasting legacy within Hockey Alberta and the broader hockey community. Known for his unwavering commitment and passion for sport, Mike Klass was a driving force behind many important initiatives, including the relocation of the Hockey Alberta office to its current home.

Beyond his accomplishments, Klass is remembered for his generosity, warmth, and the pride he carried for the game. He gave his time, energy, and heart to every aspect of hockey—whether it was behind the scenes, on the bench, or supporting others in their journey.

In 2025, Kai Melnyk, a student at NAIT, has been named the recipient of this distinguished scholarship. Melnyk was selected for his dedication to leadership and his goal of helping shape the future of hockey in an inclusive and empowering way.

“This recognition reinforces my passion for developing others and growing the game in a positive, inclusive, and empowering direction. The scholarship allows me to continue my education and development, equipping me with the tools and knowledge to make a lasting impact in hockey, both on and off the ice,” said Melnyk.

As part of the Future Leaders Development Program, Melnyk has taken steps to expand both his practical coaching experience and leadership abilities. The program has also helped him grow his confidence in navigating the demands and responsibilities of being a positive influence in sport.

“It’s been inspiring to see the ripple effect that strong leadership can have on young athletes and the broader hockey community,” he added.

Kai Melnyk carries forward the spirit of Mike Klass through his leadership, mentorship, and commitment to growing the game with integrity and care. His future in hockey is one that will continue to impact those around him, just as Klass did during his life.

The Hockey Alberta Foundation is proud to support these young leaders as they pursue their goals and continue to grow the game across Alberta and beyond.

Read more about the Hockey Alberta Foundation here.

We are now accepting applications for the 2025 Future Leaders Program. Please access the application form below.

The 2025 Future Leaders Program will take place in Red Deer on Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7. Upon selection, successful applicants will receive the full schedule. The program will begin at 5:00 PM on June 6 in the Hockey Alberta Boardroom.

FUTURE LEADERS >

Celebrating the Future of Hockey: 2025 Future Leader Scholarship Recipients Announced

Nine post-secondary students from across Alberta have been recognized as the 2025 Future Leaders—an annual initiative that supports the next generation of hockey mentors and coaches.

The Future Leader Scholarship, made possible by the Hockey Alberta Foundation, celebrates individuals who are not only passionate about the sport but are actively committed to giving back to the game through leadership, coaching, and skill development.

These students are involved in various post-secondary institutions and have demonstrated a clear commitment to fostering the next wave of hockey talent in their communities:

• Avery Kendall (Olds College) – Team Alex

• Julie Wagner (Red Deer Polytechnic)

• Kyla Hansel (Red Deer Polytechnic)

• Owen Stevenson (University of Calgary)

• Kai Melnyk (NAIT) – Distinguished Future Leader – Mike Klass

• Matthew Kachmar (University of Alberta)

• Cassidy Rhodes (University of British Columbia) – Distinguished Future Leader – Larry Reid

• Tara Sanregret (Mount Royal University)

• Abby Robar (NAIT)

These recipients exemplify the qualities of leadership, community involvement, and a passion for developing future players through teaching, mentorship, and coaching. Whether through organizing minor hockey programs, working behind the bench, or creating inclusive opportunities for others to enjoy the game, these students are helping ensure that hockey continues to thrive for generations to come.

Today, we’re profiling the 2025 Team Alex Scholarship Winner - Avery Kendall.

The Team Alex organization was created by Brian Ennis following the tragic loss of his son, Alex, to suicide in 2019. From this grief came a powerful mission: to build “a world without suicide.” Through their work, Team Alex has become a symbol of hope, support, and mental health advocacy in the minor hockey community.

The organization focused on equipping coaches and volunteers with the knowledge and confidence to support young athletes, both on and off the ice. This included training on recognizing signs of mental health struggles and promoting team environments built on empathy, morale, and connection.

Alex Ennis played organized hockey until U13, eventually turning to pond hockey—a passion he shared with his father. Brian Ennis, also the founder of Red Deer Pond Hockey, continued to champion Team Alex’s work even after the organization officially shut down in 2023. The commitment to mental health awareness and suicide prevention lives on through the Team Alex Scholarship.

This annual scholarship is awarded to a post-secondary student who demonstrates leadership, dedication, and a deep understanding of mental health challenges facing youth in sport and everyday life.

This year’s recipient is Avery Kendall from Olds College. Kendall’s longstanding dedication to hockey as both a player and a coach earned her a place in the Future Leaders Development Program. Through her experience, she has grown her skills and deepened her passion for ensuring everyone feels included in the game.

“Receiving the Future Leader Scholarship is a huge honor for me. It validates my commitment to growing within the game, not just as a player but as a coach and leader as well. This program allowed me to further develop my skills, gain valuable knowledge, and network with other coaching in Alberta. The resources and opportunities it provides will help me build the foundation I need to become a successful coach and leader in the hockey community, with the ultimate goal of creating an environment where players, especially women, feel empowered and supported in their hockey journeys,” said Kendall.

One of the most meaningful parts of the program for Kendall was learning from experienced coaches who showed her the true impact strong leadership can have—not just on team success, but on individual growth and confidence.

“It’s not just about winning games, but about inspiring players to become the best versions of themselves both on and off the ice,” she added.

Avery Kendall exemplifies the spirit of Team Alex through her commitment to inclusive leadership and her belief in the power of sport to uplift and empower. Her journey as a coach and leader is just beginning, but her impact is already being felt.

We are now accepting applications for the 2025 Future Leaders Program. Please access the application form below.

The 2025 Future Leaders Program will take place in Red Deer on Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7. Upon selection, successful applicants will receive the full schedule. The program will begin at 5:00 PM on June 6 in the Hockey Alberta Boardroom.

FUTURE LEADERS >

Celebrating the Future of Hockey: 2025 Future Leader Scholarship Recipients Announced

Nine post-secondary students from across Alberta have been recognized as the 2025 Future Leaders—an annual initiative that supports the next generation of hockey mentors and coaches.

The Future Leader Scholarship, made possible by the Hockey Alberta Foundation, celebrates individuals who are not only passionate about the sport but are actively committed to giving back to the game through leadership, coaching, and skill development.

These students are involved in various post-secondary institutions and have demonstrated a clear commitment to fostering the next wave of hockey talent in their communities:

• Avery Kendall (Olds College) – Team Alex

• Julie Wagner (Red Deer Polytechnic)

• Kyla Hansel (Red Deer Polytechnic)

• Owen Stevenson (University of Calgary)

• Kai Melnyk (NAIT) – Distinguished Future Leader – Mike Klass

• Matthew Kachmar (University of Alberta)

• Cassidy Rhodes (University of British Columbia) – Distinguished Future Leader – Larry Reid

• Tara Sanregret (Mount Royal University)

• Abby Robar (NAIT)

These recipients exemplify the qualities of leadership, community involvement, and a passion for developing future players through teaching, mentorship, and coaching. Whether through organizing minor hockey programs, working behind the bench, or creating inclusive opportunities for others to enjoy the game, these students are helping ensure that hockey continues to thrive for generations to come.

Today, we’re profiling the 2025 Larry Reid Distinguished Leader - Cassidy Rhodes.

Larry Reid’s legacy in Alberta’s hockey community is far-reaching and continues to inspire coaches and leaders across the province and beyond. Known for his deep commitment to mentorship and coach education, Reid was not only a dedicated bench boss, but also a trailblazer in the National Coach Certification Program, where he trained and developed coaches for more than 15 years.

His influence extended internationally, including two months spent coaching China’s junior national teams. In recognition of his contributions, Reid was named one of Hockey Alberta’s Top 100 contributors in 2007.

Larry Reid believed wholeheartedly in the power of hockey to build both character and community. His philosophy—“hockey is more than a game – it’s a way to build character and community”—shaped every team he coached and every life he touched.

To honour this legacy, the players of the 1962-63 Innisfail Pontiacs, whom Reid coached, established the Larry Reid Distinguished Leaders’ Scholarship. This annual scholarship is awarded to one Future Leaders Program participant who is actively pursuing leadership roles in hockey and giving back to their community.

This year, that honour goes to Cassidy Rhodes, a student from the University of British Columbia.

“Being chosen for the future leader scholarship has given me such a boost of confidence and motivation moving forward as it has cemented that I have potential as a coach moving forward. Being a part of the future leader program has also provided me the opportunity to meet others who are also in the industry that I can communicate with should I need someone to talk to which also gives me more confidence to move forward in my journey knowing I’m not alone in it,” said Rhodes.

As a participant in the Future Leaders Development Program, Rhodes has grown as both a person and a coach. She notes that the experience taught her the importance of professionalism, preparation, and passion—no matter what age group you coach.

Her coaching philosophy reflects the same values Larry Reid lived by: inclusive leadership, character development, and creating positive environments for young athletes.

“It is important as hockey is at the forefront of the sports world regularly and with many youths wanting to participate in hockey it is important that individuals provide leadership as sport does not only shape individuals as athletes but as people and I want to embody that going forward by understanding the possible impact I might have on someone’s journey in hockey,” said Rhodes.

Cassidy Rhodes’ vision for the future of hockey aligns perfectly with the legacy of Larry Reid—building communities, shaping people, and leading with heart.

We are now accepting applications for the 2025 Future Leaders Program. Please access the application form below.

The 2025 Future Leaders Program will take place in Red Deer on Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7. Upon selection, successful applicants will receive the full schedule. The program will begin at 5:00 PM on June 6 in the Hockey Alberta Boardroom.

FUTURE LEADERS >

KAMLOOPS – Team Alberta returned from the 2025 National Aboriginal Hockey Championship (NAHC), held May 5-11 on the traditional territory of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc in Kamloops, with a silver medal in the U18 Male division and a strong showing from the U18 Female team.

U18 Male

Team Alberta U18 Male turned in a dominant performance in Kamloops. After the round robin, they finished first and battled their way to a silver medal, tying their best-ever result at the event.
Alberta opened with a decisive 9-2 win over Team Eastern Door & North, followed by a 1-1 draw against Ontario. They continued their strong play with wins over British Columbia (4-0) and Manitoba (3-0) before closing out the round robin with a close 4-3 loss to Saskatchewan.

Their first-place finish earned them a semi-final rematch with Ontario, where Alberta prevailed 6-3 to advance to the gold medal game. Alberta fell to Manitoba 4-2 in a hard-fought final to claim silver.

• Round Robin Record: 3-1-1 (1st place)
• Playoff Results: Semi-final – 6-3 win over Ontario | Final – 4-2 loss to Manitoba
• Top Scorer: Aidan Sexsmith – 6 goals, 10 points (led all male players in tournament scoring)

Male Roster >

U18 Female – Strong Showing, Led by Tournament’s Top Scorer

Team Alberta U18 Female showcased resilience and offensive firepower but ultimately finished fifth after the round robin, narrowly missing the playoff round.

After a close 2-1 loss to Saskatchewan in their opener, Alberta bounced back with a thrilling 5-4 victory over eventual gold medalists Team Ontario. The team continued to battle hard but fell to BC (6-4) and Manitoba (3-2), while recording a commanding 7-0 win over Team Eastern Door & North.

Despite finishing with a 2-3 record, the team’s standout performances were highlighted by Tayla Lamabe, who led all female players in the tournament with 11 goals and 13 points.

• Final Record: 2 wins, 3 losses
• Top Scorer: Tayla Lamabe – 11 goals, 13 points (led all female players in tournament scoring)

Female Roster >

The 2026 National Aboriginal Hockey Championship will be hosted by Ochapowace Nation in Regina, Saskatchewan.

The NAHC, established by the Aboriginal Sport Circle in 2002, continues to serve as the premier national competition for elite Indigenous U18 hockey players. The annual event brings together First Nations, Inuit, and Métis athletes from across Canada, celebrating athletic excellence, cultural pride, and community development through sport.

Team Alberta Female Embraces Unity, Culture, and Competition at 2025 NAHC

KAMLOOPS, B.C. — With the 2025 National Aboriginal Hockey Championship (NAHC) in full swing, Team Alberta Female arrived in Kamloops, ready to compete and connect, grow, and lead with purpose.

Head coach Bryan Toles brings a philosophy rooted in trust, accountability, and culture at the heart of the team’s preparation and identity. Stepping into the role midway through the process, Toles has quickly established a foundation of unity that transcends the ice.

“It really is about the experiences,” said Toles. “A lot of these players are going to go on to junior teams, colleges, or back to their club teams, but what they’ll remember most are the things that happen on the bus, in the dressing room, at the hotel. Winning becomes a byproduct of that.”

Team Alberta Female represents a mix of returning players and first-time participants, each bringing their own regional and cultural identities into a shared provincial mission. To help this group come together, the coaching staff has prioritized team-building initiatives, including cultural experiences like a group visit to a newly opened residential school museum in Kamloops, an intentional effort to ground the team in the deeper meaning of the NAHC.

“We’re doing cultural stuff, team bonding, and providing an atmosphere where they can connect and play free, but also challenge each other,” Toles explained. “It’s about being able to move in one direction before puck drop, trusting the process, as cliché as it sounds.”

Trust and freedom are core principles of Toles’ coaching style. He encourages his players to make mistakes, learn from them, and stay focused on their collective responsibilities rather than fear individual slip-ups.

“We have some non-negotiables in terms of our structure, but I want the players to play free within that system,” he said. “Everyone makes mistakes, and how you recover and how the team responds together matters.”

That balance of structure and freedom mirrors what Toles has implemented successfully with the Edmonton Wolves, who recently won provincials under his leadership.

“A lot of these players are getting to the point where they’re young adults,” said Toles. “We want to give them the ability to make the right decisions on and off the ice, not just as athletes, but as people.”

As competition has unfolded this week, Team Alberta Female goal was not only chasing a championship but building a legacy of respect, resilience, and cultural pride. With strong leadership and a unified locker room, the team competed hard, but their most significant win may come from what they can take home beyond the game.

“We’re going to have fun, we’re going to learn, and we’re going to grow,” Toles added. “Seeing these young women put the same jersey on and go together, that’s what I’m most looking forward to.”

KAMLOOPS, B.C. — As the 2025 National Aboriginal Hockey Championship (NAHC) continues in Kamloops, Team Alberta Male has arrived with both purpose and pride. The group, a mix of new faces and seasoned players, is being guided by head coach Kevin Hasselberg, a veteran of junior hockey and national-level coaching, now leading at one of the most meaningful events in Indigenous sport.

“This isn’t just about hockey,” said Hasselberg. “It’s about leadership, identity, and learning. It’s about helping young men believe in themselves and grow into who they already are, not change them, but bring out their strengths.”

Hasselberg brings a deeply personal and values-driven philosophy to the bench. Rooted in the work ethic he witnessed growing up on his family’s ranch, his coaching style emphasizes perseverance, character, and accountability.

“Successful people are those who understand setbacks, failures, and push through,” he said. “That came from my parents. Now, I get to give back to the game I love by helping these players build not just their skills, but their sense of self.”

The NAHC is a fast-paced, high-stakes competition. With players coming from different regions and cultural backgrounds, team cohesion can be a challenge, but Hasselberg sees this as an opportunity to empower his athletes rather than control them.

“You have to make it comfortable for them to be uncomfortable,” he explained. “If they know they’re accepted and appreciated for who they are, they can just play. They don’t need to fear making mistakes; that freedom builds chemistry and confidence.”

This year’s roster includes both returning players and first-timers, including veteran Gan McDonald, who brings invaluable leadership to a group that has never played together before. Many of the athletes know each other from past tournaments or regional play, but this is their first time sharing one jersey.

“That’s what makes this year special,” Hasselberg said. “They’ve never played together as one full team, but they know of each other or have played together at some point. That familiarity builds quickly, and we’re going to have a lot of fun with it.”

Beyond the rink, Hasselberg and his staff have embraced the tournament’s greater purpose: celebrating Indigenous culture and unity. The team has spent time learning about each other’s backgrounds and nations, a process that struck the coach on a personal level.

“We asked the players where they’re from and the first thing many said was their First Nations community,” said Hasselberg. “That was really powerful. It made me realize I needed to do more homework, listen more, and understand what this really means. It’s so much bigger than just a hockey tournament.”

As the games unfold, Hasselberg hopes his players remember more than wins and losses. He wants them to remember the moments in between the friendships, the laughter, the pride, and the small victories that make up the journey.

“Just be in the moment,” he said. “Celebrate the small wins. Don’t let a mistake or a bad day take away from the time we have together. Value the experience! That’s what stays with you for life.”

Alberta is seeking its first male gold medal at the NAHC, so the stakes are high. However, under Hasselberg’s leadership, the focus is broader, richer, and ultimately more lasting.

“We want to win it all, no doubt,” he said. “But the legacy we’re building isn’t just on the scoreboard. It’s in the bonds these young men create and the pride they carry with them long after the final whistle.”

The Male team will play in the Semi-finals at 1:00pm today. The game can be streamed on NAHC YouTube Channel.

A total of 75 Albertans, registered with Hockey Alberta/ Hockey Canada sanctioned organizations, were selected during the Western Hockey League’s Prospects draft.

Round 1 of the draft was held Wednesday evening, with the draft concluding on Thursday afternoon.

Calgary’s Thor Liffiton (Calgary Northstars U15AAA) was the top Albertan selected, fourth overall by the WHL’s newest team, the Penticton Vees. Ten Albertans were selected in the first round, 11 in the second round, and another 11 in the third round. Of the 75 Albertans selected, 47 played in the Alberta Elite Hockey League in the 2024-25 season.

FULL LIST OF ALBERTANS SELECTED IN WHL DRAFT >

Full results can be viewed at the 2025 WHL Draft website.

RED DEER – The final day of the 2025 Alberta Challenge has concluded! North Blue was crowned the tournament champions after an exciting overtime finish in the finals. Here is everything that you need to know about Day 4!

Game #1

South Black 4 - North Red 2

Players of the Game:

South Black: #9 Addison Bruce

North Red: #9 Siri Bolding

Game #2

South Green 5 – South Grey 2

Players of the Game:

South Green: #8 Keelie Armstrong

South Grey: #11 Ziah Dennis

Game #3

North Blue 2 – North Yellow 1 (OT)

Players of the Game:

North Blue: #12 Kasey McLeod

North Yellow: #5 Taryn Leighton

Tourism Red Deer Daily Photo Gallery:

Moments from each day of competition are being captured and shared on the website in albums each day. Visit the link below to view the full gallery.

Daily Gallery Link

Panago Pizza Highlight of the Day:

The Panago Highlight of the Day belongs to the overtime winning goal scorer in the Alberta Challenge championship final, North Blue #12 Kasey McLeod.

Click to View Highlight