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News

Hockey Alberta’s Elite Female Hockey Announces the Expansion of 3 Teams for the 2025-26 Season

RED DEER - The AFHL is excited to announce the expansion of elite female hockey opportunities in Alberta for the 2025-2026 season. Over the past five seasons, girls’ hockey has experienced remarkable growth, prompting the Elite Female Committee to recognize the need for additional teams in areas where this growth is exceptional. These new teams are part of a comprehensive strategic review that considered association growth, sustainability, grassroots initiatives, and feedback from elite committee task groups.

Hockey Alberta’s Elite Female Hockey Committee is pleased to announce the addition of the following new host Minor Hockey Associations (MHAs) for the 2025-26 season:

U13 AA - Addition of 2 Teams

1 in Cochrane

1 in Fort McMurray

U15 AA - Addition of 1 Team

1 in Camrose

 

The establishment of these new teams is the result of a three-year effort by Hockey Alberta, during which they assessed the success of the Elite Female Hockey Model and determined the eligibility of new associations to host Elite Teams. The committee has closely monitored the recent surge in female hockey participation and has evaluated the available pathways for players to advance within Alberta’s female hockey system.

“With the rapid growth of female hockey in Alberta, the future is bright for the AFHL. These new teams not only reflect the surge in participation but also provide more opportunities for female players to develop their skills, rise to higher levels, and be part of the continued growth of female hockey in our province. The success and visibility of the current programs, along with growing professional opportunities with the PWHL and Canadian Women’s National Team, are inspiring a new generation of elite female players, and we are excited that the AFHL remains the league of choice for these athletes to develop and compete."

-AFHL Chair, Jody Forbes

The Elite Female Hockey Model was launched in the 2016-17 season after a three-year review by Hockey Alberta in 2013. It established provincial standards for the number of teams at each level, streamlined the U18 AAA division for better competition, and introduced the AA system for appropriate skill development. This framework supports player growth from grassroots to U13, U15, and U18 AA programs, leading to Team Alberta, Team Canada, and post-secondary opportunities.

Since the implementation of the new model in 2016, registration numbers for female players in Alberta have increased by 32% overall. This includes a 36% increase at the U15 level, a 52% increase at U13, and a 62% increase at U11.

The AFHL and its members have successfully developed and placed over 330 athletes in post-secondary institutions across Canada and the US. Our alumni have represented Team Alberta at the National Championships and Canada Games, won National Championships (USport & NCAA), received medals at the World Championships representing Team Canada, and have been selected to compete in the PWHL.

The Elite Female Hockey Committee is working with all host MHAs to finalize program and league operations for the upcoming season. We will also continue to review the structure and alignment of the AFHL, considering potential changes and further expansion for the 2026-27 season.

Home Ice Feature

Para Hockey Teams Gather in Red Deer for 4th Annual Tournament

RED DEER – The 4th annual Para Hockey Tournament took place at the G.H. Dawe Community Centre on February 22-23, bringing together teams from across Alberta for a celebration of sport, community, and inclusivity.

Divisions included Junior, Intermediate C, and Intermediate B with participating teams:

  • Junior Division: Calgary Venom, Medicine Hat Hounds Jr, PSA Blades, Team Jigger Jr
  • Intermediate C: Calgary Stingers, Edmonton Impact, Medicine Hat Hounds Orange, EASA Storm C, Medicine Hat Hounds White, Team Jigger
  • Intermediate B: Calgary Scorpions, EASA Storm B

Para Hockey is a sport open to all ages and abilities, with Alberta’s season running from October through April. It is a sport everyone can play.

“This tournament, along with the one held in October at the G.H. Dawe Community Centre, offers a fantastic opportunity for clubs across Alberta to come together and compete," said Cassandra Campbell, Coordinator, Growth and Retention with Hockey Alberta. "Much of the Para Hockey season involves practice, and competitions are typically tournament-style. Since many tournaments take place out of province, having two central tournaments allows programs to compete without the need for extensive travel.”

Coach Ray Wasdal, also the Program Coordinator for Sledge Hockey in Red Deer and Central Alberta, praised the event. “The tournament was great, once again. The primary organizer was Sharon Veeneman from the Edmonton Adaptive Sports Association, and she along with others from that organization did a fantastic job. The support we receive from Hockey Alberta through Cassie Campbell was also very important for the success of the tournament. The referees did a great job, and the G. H. Dawe operations staff were very helpful throughout.”  

Beyond competition, the weekend fostered community connections. “These tournaments are very important first and foremost for the players because it provides an opportunity to play teams from other regions. That doesn’t happen as often as we would like due to challenges associated with travel, etc. It also provides an excellent networking opportunity for all the teams, managers, coaches, and parents to share experiences and to find ways to further support each other” Wasdal added. "Events like this allow us to showcase para hockey to a wide range of people so they can witness what an amazing and inclusive sport it is.”

The weekend also featured a Canadian Tire Jumpstart-sponsored Try-It Event, highlighting para hockey’s accessibility. "At the Try It Event, sponsored by the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program celebrating their 20th anniversary, we had a 4-year-old girl, and an 85-year-old man participate! It was a wonderful example of the broad range of participants that sledge hockey can attract and accommodate, as well as the overall inclusive nature of the sport. During these tournaments it is always heart-warming to see the smiles on all the faces of everyone involved (players, parents, family, friends, coaches, and managers)”, Wasdal shared.

Tara Chisholm, Provincial Program Director with the Paralympic Sports Association, reflected on the tournament’s success. “The tournament was really great overall. Teams from across Alberta were able to gather and play against one another in a jamboree-style event where there were no medal games, so everyone could relax a little bit and just enjoy one game at a time! It was really a celebration of all the hard work the clubs have been putting in throughout the year.”

A standout moment for Chisholm was, “when a player on our Medicine Hat team not only scored his first goal but went on to score his first hat trick! This player was in tears after each goal, and the whole team was erupting every time he put it in the back of the net. He never had the opportunity to play hockey growing up due to his disability and now seeing him as an adult having these personal successes over the weekend was just as exciting for his teammates as it was for him.”

Campbell highlighted the importance of accessible facilities and the growth of para hockey in Alberta, “In March 2023, renovations at the Dawe Centre added two accessible arenas, allowing Hockey Alberta to host its first two Para Hockey tournaments at the facility during the 2023-2024 season. The clubs have continued to organize these tournaments this season, providing athletes with opportunities to compete in Alberta and showcasing the growth of both the programs and the athletes. Congratulations to everyone involved for their hard work in making these tournaments a success.”

With Team Jigger Sledge Hockey Association set to host the next tournament this fall, Alberta’s para hockey community continues to grow through collaboration, competition, and a shared love for the game.

Interested in trying para hockey? Visit Hockey Alberta for more information.

Hockey Alberta Foundation

GRANT SPOTLIGHT: Every Kid Every Community Program Grant

The Hockey Alberta Foundation is proud to support the growth of female hockey across the province through the Every Kid Every Community (EKEC) Program. This year, Hockey Alberta awarded $10,000 in total funding, providing $1,000 grants to ten host communities. The initiative aims to celebrate and grow the female game at the grassroots level by allowing communities to organize their own Female Hockey Day events. These events offer participants the opportunity to develop their skills, build friendships, and strengthen their connection to the sport.

First Five Host Communities Recap:

RED DEER - Red Deer Minor Hockey (RDMH) proudly hosted Female Hockey Day on February 2nd, delivering an exciting and engaging experience for young athletes. The day began with a 75-minute on-ice session where participants worked on fundamental skills and teamwork. Following the ice time, athletes enjoyed a 75-minute gym session that combined interactive games with a creative poster-making activity. To cap off the day, all female athletes received a special invitation to attend the U18AA girls’ game, fostering community spirit and support for female hockey.

A total of 43 participants took part in the day, supported by 12 on-ice volunteers and 17 volunteers overall. One young athlete described the event as "the best day of her life," sharing her excitement about the "big kids" who made her a poster and skated alongside her. She not only made new friends but also cherished the opportunity to visit the older players’ dressing room and watch them compete—an experience that left a lasting impression on her love for the game.

GROVEDALE – Grovedale Minor Hockey Association welcomed every girl in their association to participate in Girls Day, creating an inclusive and memorable experience for athletes of all ages. Each participant received a sweater, toque, thinnies, and other small swag items to commemorate the day. The festivities included a pizza lunch, and off-ice activities planned and led by the association’s U13 athletes.

A key focus this year was fostering leadership among the older athletes. Four U13 girls took charge of organizing the off-ice portion of the day, researching and planning creative relay races and games for the younger players. They also choreographed a warm-up dance that all participants performed before the game. Their leadership not only enhanced the event but also provided valuable mentorship opportunities, with younger athletes looking up to and learning from their older peers.

The on-ice portion of the event featured a 5-on-5 game that brought together players from all levels of the association. Following the game, participants competed in a skills competition that included a shootout, fastest skater challenge, and a team relay—adding a fun and competitive element to the day.

VERMILION – Vermilion Minor Hockey hosted a successful event aimed at promoting female participation in hockey, bringing together 65 participants for a day of both on-ice and off-ice sessions. The activities focused on skill development, team building, and inspiring female athletes to stay engaged in the sport.

A highlight of the day was a presentation from a guest speaker who provided insightful statistics on the growth of female hockey in Alberta, resonating strongly with the participants and leaving them feeling motivated and inspired.

New to this year’s event was a partnership with the Vermilion Curling Club. Girls had the opportunity to take part in a “Learn to Curl” session, emphasizing the importance of connecting with other community sports. The activity was particularly meaningful given the presence of curling rinks in many small-town barns across the province. Participants enjoyed the chance to try something new together, with many noting that their favorite part of the day was being on the ice with the U18 girls, fostering a sense of mentorship and friendship.

SLAVE LAKE - Slave Lake hosted a satellite event in conjunction with Female Hockey Day 2025, aiming to support, spark interest, and encourage participation in female hockey. With 38 participants and 11 volunteers, the event featured four hours of ice time and three hours of dryland activities, funded through the Hockey Alberta Foundation grant. Participants received jerseys, swag bags, and enjoyed a pizza lunch and snacks throughout the day.

Activities included two on-ice skill sessions, a ‘try it’ goalie session, a free skate, and yoga sessions, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience for players of all skill levels. Additionally, the live stream of the PWHL game provided extra excitement and inspiration for attendees.

The event was particularly notable for its focus on younger athletes, a positive sign for the future of female hockey in Slave Lake. The U18 female team stepped up as mentor coaches, creating meaningful connections with the younger players. The positive response was overwhelming, with several participants expressing interest in signing up for minor hockey next season and many inquiring about returning for next year’s event.

FORT MCMURRAY- Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association proudly hosted their own Female Hockey Day, celebrating the contributions of female athletes and showcasing the sport to the local community. The event welcomed an impressive 130 participants with the support of six volunteers. Organized by the U18 Huskies female team, the day focused on leadership, mentorship, and fostering a love for hockey across all age groups.

The U18 athletes took on a leadership role, working closely with younger female teams to promote teamwork and community spirit. A highlight of the event was the special experience created for the U9 players, who were invited to join the U18 team before their game. The younger athletes were announced onto the ice, participated in warm-ups with the older players, and stood proudly on the blue line during the singing of O’Canada. The U9 players described the moment as unforgettable, with many expressing that they "felt famous" being part of the experience.

PHOTO GALLERY >

Hockey Alberta Pathways

Brandon Hagel Pathway: A Journey Fueled by Passion, Hard Work, and Grit

From his early days with the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers to becoming a top talent representing Canada on the world stage, Brandon Hagel’s journey through hockey has been defined by a relentless work ethic, competitive drive, and the desire to win.

“Brandon was a talented athlete who was always working to improve. What set Brandon apart from his peers was his passion for the game and his competitive drive as he had a motor that was always running at maximum. You see that motor still running strong at the NHL level and it is a fundamental component of his professional success.”
— Lee Zalasky, Fort Saskatchewan Rangers U16 AAA and Team Northeast, Alberta Cup

Minor Hockey Associations:

  • Morinville Minor Hockey Association (Now Sturgeon Minor Hockey)
  • Fort Saskatchewan Rangers Athletic Club

Year

Team

GP

G

A

Pts

2011-2013

Fort Saskatchewan Rangers U15 AAA

66

29

31

60

2013-2014

Fort Saskatchewan Rangers U16 AAA

44

36

27

63

2014-2015

Fort Saskatchewan Rangers U18 AAA

34

23

28

51

Junior Hockey:

  • Whitecourt Wolverines (AJHL)
  • Red Deer Rebels (WHL)

Year

Team

GP

G

A

Pts

2015-2016

Whitecourt Wolverines

9

2

3

5

2015-2016

Red Deer Rebels

89

14

44

57

2016-2017

Red Deer Rebels

72

38

41

79

2017-2018

Red Deer Rebels

61

23

42

65

2018-2019

Red Deer Rebels

70

45

63

110

Professional Hockey:

  • Rockford IceHogs (AHL)
  • Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
  • Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)

Year

Team

GP

G

A

Pts

2019-2020

Rockford IceHogs

59

19

12

31

2020-2021

Chicago Blackhawks

52

9

15

24

2021-2022

Chicago Blackhawks/Tampa Bay Lightning

77

25

19

44

2022-2023

Tampa Bay Lightning

81

30

34

64

2023-2024

Tampa Bay Lightning

82

26

49

75

2024-2025

Tampa Bay Lightning

56

27

37

64

Highlights:

  • 2013 Alberta Cup Champion
  • 2014 U16 AAA Team MVP
  • Red Deer Rebels franchise record for assists (189) & 3rd all-time in franchise points (309)
  • 2025 4 Nations Face-Off Championship with Team Canada

“Brandon is the type of player everyone wants to play with but not against. He is the model for hard work … a championship-minded athlete.”
— Coach Struch, Current Red Deer Rebels Coach

Home Ice Feature

Strathcona U7 Warriors: Leading the Way in Inclusion and Support for Abby’s Journey

SHERWOOD PARK, AB — Hockey has always been more than just a sport—it’s a community, a place where players come together, support each other, and grow both on and off the ice. For Abby, a young hockey player with a visual impairment, the Strathcona Minor Hockey U7 Team has played a pivotal role in helping her experience the game with the same passion and joy as her peers. Abby’s journey has become a shining example of inclusion and teamwork through the unwavering support of her coaches, teammates, and the hockey community.

Abby’s love for hockey began with her older brother, Will, who introduced her to the rink. As she grew more interested in the game, her family sought opportunities for her to play. This led Abby to the Edmonton Seehawks, where she participated in blind hockey, a growing program designed for visually impaired players. While Abby enjoyed her time with the Seehawks, it wasn’t until she joined Strathcona Minor Hockey’s U7 Warriors team that she truly found her place. The structured team atmosphere and focus on skill development were exactly what Abby needed to thrive.

Her parents, David and Jada, have been key players in her journey. Jada shared, “We learned early on that Abby was going to do anything that her older brother could do. Once she joined the Warriors last year in U7, she really liked the drills and the skills they were working on. She wasn’t getting that in blind hockey but found it with Strathcona.”

The importance of inclusion in sports cannot be overstated. Abby’s experience with Strathcona Minor Hockey is a testament to the team’s commitment to creating an environment where every player feels valued and supported regardless of ability. From the very beginning, Abby’s coaches have made it clear that she is a vital part of the team.

Nick Scott, the head coach, stepped into his role with the understanding that Abby’s participation would require some adjustments. He worked with her parents to implement a unique solution—a special puck with ball bearings that produces sound cues, allowing Abby to track it on the ice. Coach Nick’s dedication to making the game accessible for Abby is reflected in the entire team’s commitment to inclusion.

“The other kids have really embraced it,” said Coach Nick. “They understand that not everyone experiences the game the same way, and they rally around Abby. Using the special puck has not only helped Abby but has also been a learning experience for all of them.”

Abby’s teammates have learned valuable lessons in empathy and inclusion through interactions with her. The team manager, Jordyn Pennington, shared how her child has benefited from playing alongside Abby. “It’s given him a real-life, hands-on experience with someone who has a visual impairment,” she explained. “It’s allowed him to see what Abby goes through and how she can still find success and love for the game.”

This first-hand experience is shaping the way the young players view the world. “Our coaches are fantastic at creating a positive atmosphere for all the kids,” Jordyn added. “They show the kids that, even though our levels and ages might be different, we’re all here to love the game and support each other.”

The focus is on fostering a supportive and encouraging environment where success is measured by effort and teamwork, not just skill. For Abby, this means being able to participate in the sport she loves alongside teammates who cheer her on every step of the way.

Abby’s journey is far from over. With the support of Strathcona Minor Hockey, her coaches, and her teammates, Abby continues to grow as a player and person. The future may hold new challenges, but Abby is ready to face them head-on. David and Jada’s goal for Abby is simple: “We just want to keep her on the ice, keep her enjoying the game, and see where it takes her,” said David. “She’s got great coaches, and she’s got the support of us as her family. We’ll see what happens, but for now, we’re just enjoying the ride.”

For Strathcona Minor Hockey and her U7 Warriors Team, Abby’s journey is a reminder of the power of inclusion and the positive impact it can have on the entire community. By embracing Abby’s unique needs and helping her succeed, the Warriors have created a space where every player, no matter their background or ability, can feel like they belong.

News

Exciting FREE PWHL Events Coming to Edmonton This Weekend

Edmonton is set to host a series of exciting events as part of the PWHL Takeover Tour, celebrating the growth and excitement of women’s hockey. Fans will have multiple opportunities to watch players in action, interact with PWHL stars, and enjoy family-friendly activities across the city FOR FREE.

The events kick off on Friday, February 14, with a MacEwan Griffins game at 7:00 PM at the Downtown Community Arena. Hockey fans can use the promo code PWHLTAKEOVER to grab their tickets at a discounted price.

GET TICKETS >

On Saturday, February 15, hockey enthusiasts are invited to watch the Ottawa Charge Open Practice from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Rogers Place. This is a great opportunity for fans to see the team prepare for their upcoming game during the PWHL Takeover Tour.

GET TICKETS >

The weekend continues with a family-friendly skating party on Saturday, February 15, at the Esso Oval, ICE District Plaza from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The free event invites fans to skate with Oilers personalities, alumni, and PWHL players, while enjoying hot chocolate and treats from the Esso Pit Stop.

Later that evening, fans can take part in the Beyond the Boards event at West Edmonton Mall from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. This exclusive event features a Q&A session with Jincy Roese, an Alternate Captain for the Ottawa Charge, and rookie player Stephanie Markowski. The Q&A will provide an inside look into their journeys to the PWHL and advice for young, aspiring hockey players. Following the Q&A, attendees will have the chance to meet Jincy and Stephanie in person for photos and autographs. This is a free event, but registration is required due to limited spots.

REGISTER >

And don’t miss your chance to win tickets to the event! Head over to Hockey Alberta’s Instagram page for your chance to win lodge tickets for the upcoming games.

With the PWHL Takeover Tour bringing so many exciting activities to the city, this is a weekend no hockey fan will want to miss. Get ready to celebrate women’s hockey and connect with your favorite players in Edmonton!

Home Ice Feature

Black History Month: Nyla Barbon - Leading with Passion from the Bench

As we acknowledge Black History Month, it’s important to recognize the voices and stories that are shaping the future of hockey. Nyla Barbon is one of those voices—making an impact in the coaching world. Though she’s only been coaching for two years, Barbon has already made a significant impact on her players, inspiring them to grow not just as athletes, but as confident individuals.

Barbon’s journey into coaching started with a deep love for the game. “I played hockey for thirteen years—about 10 years in minor hockey, and then I also played Junior A,” she says. “I decided that I would still love to stay included with my community and help out coaching. Additionally, I coach my younger sister, which helps me stay close to her and spend more time with her”.

As a newer coach, Barbon has already experienced moments that have shaped her into the leader she is today. “It feels like every game is a highlight moment,” she expresses. One of the highlights for her has been watching her players develop and gain confidence both on and off the ice. “With the way the kids play together, communicate, joke around with us coaches, it makes me feel nostalgic and makes me feel like I’m back playing with all my friends” she shares. “Being there is the highlight itself, it’s the highlight of my winter. I am still passionate about this sport; I just get to be passionate from the bench.”

For Barbon, coaching isn’t just about skills or strategies—it’s about positive encouragement. “I was one of the only girls playing on my team growing up majority of the time, so having male coaches. That pushed me to my goals and told me, you know, you are a good hockey player. You are good at skating. You are good at this. Insanely inspirational. It changes the way a kid feels about themselves and their sport,” she explains. “When someone other than a parent or sibling or someone super close to them can says ‘hey I’m super proud of you, you’re doing amazing.”

She not only leads with encouragement but was also shaped by strong mentors and leadership growing up. “Every single one of my coaches growing up, all male coaches expect for one, all super amazing people, amazing dads, amazing humans and they pushed me to do better and told me I could do anything I wanted on the ice. Which I did!”

This is especially important for Nyla as she reflects on Black History Month. “it’s important in the way where it allows kids that might feel like they’re not welcome in the sport, or make kids feel like they’re not good enough to play hockey, or make kids, you know, those that feel they’re not quite adequate enough though, to others, that they can do it, and they can be a part of it” she says.

“Because I can say for sure that I don’t look the same as a lot of the people that I played with or the people that coached me or just anyone around me in the town I grew up in, I look significantly different and I think that as a little girl if I were to have seen a woman coach who maybe doesn’t look like everybody else on the team, I would have been like, okay, wow, there’s somebody that can represent me and my goals and what I could see myself doing as a young child.”

Barbon’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and creating opportunities for young players—especially young women—speaks to her dedication to the game. Even though her coaching career is still in its early stages, she’s already paving the way for the next generation. “I want to be that for other little girls. And it’s amazing to be in the arena right now and see so many young kids from everywhere playing hockey and being a part of it. And even coaching, we play against teams that are their startup teams. It’s kids that maybe wouldn’t have never stepped on the ice, but because these associations and these communities are making it safe and inclusive, same with Hockey Canada, it’s happening and we’re seeing it.”

For anyone who’s inspired by Nyla’s journey and is interested in coaching, Hockey Alberta offers resources and opportunities to get started. Whether you’re new to coaching or looking to expand your skills, there’s always room for more passionate individuals in the world of hockey.

Team Alberta

2025 Team Alberta U18 Female Coaching Staff Announced

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has announced the coaching staff for Team Alberta U18 Female at the 2025 National Championships.

USport’s Calgary Dinos Female head coach Josh Gosling (Chestermere) is stepping onto the bench as the head coach of Team Alberta. Gosling has coached and mentored in the Alberta Cup and Alberta Challenge programs, and is mentoring the South Green team at the 2025 Alberta Challenge.

Joining Gosling behind the bench are assistant coaches Mandy Layden (Drayton Valley) and Craig Perrett (Calgary), along with video coach Tatum Amy (Calgary) and goalie coach Jamond Cardinal (Edmonton).

Other members of the staff for Team Alberta U18 Female include Equipment Manager Dave Campbell (Grande Prairie), Coach Mentor Rob Dawson (St. Albert) and Director of Operations Michael Kraichy (Red Deer).

POSITION

NAME

HOMETOWN

Director of Operations

Michael Kraichy

Red Deer

Coach Mentor

Rob Dawson

St. Albert

Head Coach

Josh Gosling

Chestermere

Assistant Coach

Mandy Layden

Drayton Valley

Assistant Coach

Craig Perrett

Calgary

Video Coach

Tatum Amy

Calgary

Goalie Coach

Jamond Cardinal

Edmonton

Equipment Manager

Dave Campbell

Grande Prairie

Layden is currently an assistant coach with the MacEwan University Griffins Female (USport) team, and has previously coached and mentored in the Alberta Challenge program. She is slated to be the coach mentor for North Yellow at the 2025 Alberta Challenge.

Perrett is the current Director of Operations of the Calgary Fire in the Alberta Female Hockey League. He has coached Team Alberta U18 on three previous occasions, has coached and mentored at the Alberta Cup and Alberta Challenge, and is the coach mentor for South Black at the 2025 Alberta Challenge.

Amy is the current video coach with the Mount Royal Cougars Female team (USport), also having captained the Cougars Female squad from 2021-2023.

Cardinal steps into the goalie coach role for the first time with Team Alberta, and is currently the Goalie Coach for the UofA Pandas Female (USport) team.

Team Alberta

2025 Team Alberta U16 Male Coaching Staff Announced

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has announced the coaching staff for Team Alberta U16 Male at the 2025 WHL Cup.

Former two-time Team Alberta U16 assistant coach Cody Reynolds (Sylvan Lake) takes the reins this year as the new head coach. Reynolds is currently the associate head coach with the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings of the ACAC. He has also coached in multiple Alberta Cups throughout his coaching tenure and will look to lead Team Alberta to their second WHL Cup win in a row.

Joining Reynolds behind the bench are assistant coaches Ryan Allen (Grande Prairie) and Jack Redlick (St. Albert), along with video coach Justin Ostertag (Calgary) and goalie coach Theo Zubot (Calgary).

Other members of the staff for Team Alberta U16 Male include Therapist Matt Goertzen (Edmonton), Equipment Manager Dave Campbell (Grande Prairie), Head Scout Bobby Fox (Calgary), Coach Mentor Barry Medori (Spruce Grove) and Director of Operations Michael Kraichy (Red Deer).

POSITION

NAME

HOMETOWN

Director of Operations

Michael Kraichy

Red Deer

Coach Mentor

Barry Medori

Spruce Grove

Head Scout

Bobby Fox

Calgary

Head Coach

Cody Reynolds

Sylvan Lake

Assistant Coach

Ryan Allen

Grande Prairie

Assistant Coach

Jack Redlick

St. Albert

Video Coach

Justin Ostertag

Calgary

Goalie Coach

Theo Zubot

Calgary

Therapist

Matt Goertzen

Edmonton

Equipment Manager

Dave Campbell

Grande Prairie

Allen is currently the head coach for the AEHL U18AAA GPAC Storm, has previously been an assistant coach and video coach for Team Alberta U16 Male, including the winning 2024 squad, and has coached and mentored in previous years in both the Alberta Cup and Prospects Cup Programs.

Redlick has been the current head coach of the AEHL U18AAA St. Albert Raiders since the 2016-17 season, currently leading the team to the top of the North Division, and has gone through Hockey Alberta’s system by coaching at the Alberta Cup.

Ostertag is the current head coach of the AEHL U17AAA Calgary Flames and has held the position since the 2023-24 season. He has coached in both the Alberta Cup and Prospects Cup programs, and is slated to be the head coach of Alberta Blue at the 2025 Alberta Cup.

Zubot returns for his second consecutive year as goalie coach for Team Alberta U16, being a member of the 2024 championship team the previous year. He was the Goalie Coach of the U15 AAA and U17 AAA Calgary Northstars before moving up to the Western Hockey League where he’s currently the Goalie Coach of the Calgary Hitmen.

News

Celebrating Female Hockey Day Across Alberta

Hockey Alberta recently hosted its annual Female Hockey Day, celebrating the growth and development of female hockey across the province, with the host city being Medicine Hat. This year’s celebration was presented by ATB and brought together players, coaches, officials, family members, and volunteers to participate in events that highlighted the continued growth of female hockey in Alberta.

Female Hockey Day is an exciting occasion that celebrates the achievements of female athletes and provides an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow the sport.

One of the key takeaways from this year’s event in Medicine Hat was the strong community support from across the city. "There were a few things that stood out most about this event and about Medicine Hat, specifically, as a hockey community," said Morgen Kidney, Hockey Alberta’s Minor Leagues Coordinator. "The first being the fact that every hockey-lover and supporter was super excited to take part in the day in some fashion. Even though our sessions were focused on girls’ hockey development, we saw brothers, dads, and other men supporting the event around the rink all day. This was most evident during the Showcase Game, in which there were a ton of young men in the crowd cheering for the top level of girls’ hockey in Alberta!"

Additionally, the energy in the arena was undeniable, with attendees showing a strong desire to stay and support the event from start to finish. "The other aspect that stood out about the event in Medicine Hat was that no one wanted to leave the arena. We see events where people come and go, but it was fantastic to see that the Medicine Hat girls in each of the sessions wanted to hang around, cheer for the other groups, and be involved in as much as possible."

Kidney also reflected on the growth of the event over the past few years. “It’s really exciting to see how much Alberta Female Hockey Day has grown in the last few years. It was only 3 years ago that we were only seeing 2-3 associations apply to host satellite events in conjunction with our main one; the past two years, we’ve had 15+ apply.” Kidney continued, “I think this speaks to the incredible recent growth of girls’ hockey, and it’s only going to continue. Having events like this spread out across the entire province gives girls a chance to celebrate, enjoy the game, work on their skills, and spark conversation about their hockey goals and dreams.”

While Medicine Hat was the main host city for the 2025 event, celebrations took place in over 10 communities across Alberta, thanks to grant funding from the Hockey Alberta Foundation. These celebrations were held in Fort McMurray, High Prairie, Slave Lake, Bonnyville, Grovedale, Vermilion, Morinville, Edmonton, Lacombe, Red Deer, and Jasper, making Female Hockey Day a truly province-wide celebration.

The success of Female Hockey Day this year highlights the incredible growth and energy surrounding female hockey in Alberta, with communities coming together to support and inspire the next generation of athletes.

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Home Ice Feature

Airdrie Lightning U18AA Team Shines at Preds Girls Classic in Nashville

This past weekend, Hockey Alberta’s very own Airdrie Lightning U18AA AFHL team made waves on the international stage, traveling to Nashville to compete in the highly anticipated Preds Girls Classic. Despite a rocky start, the team’s resilience, teamwork, and determination propelled them to an inspiring victory, ending in a gold medal finish.

The tournament began with a tough 5-4 shootout loss to the host team, the Nashville Jr. Preds U16. However, the Airdrie Lightning quickly regrouped, showing the heart and determination that has defined their season. Saturday morning saw them bounce back with a commanding 5-2 win over the Nashville Jr. Preds U19 team, followed by a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the number eight ranked U16 Chicago Hawks later that afternoon. These wins earned the Lightning 6 points and a spot in the finals.

In the championship game, the Lightning faced the U16 Chicago Hawks once again. The final was an intense battle, with both teams giving it their all. A key goal early in the third period put the Lightning ahead, and they played solid, defensive hockey to secure the win, clinching the gold medal.

While the on-ice success was remarkable, the experience off the ice made lasting memories for the team. The players had the opportunity to explore Nashville together, bonding during team dinners, enjoying time on Broadway, and even trying group line dancing. These shared experiences will remain etched in the players’ minds for years to come.

Head coach Abby Laporte, who is new to coaching in Alberta, expressed immense pride in her team’s accomplishments. “Our girls are truly special,” she said, “we have the smallest roster in our league, which requires a lot of grit and determination to play in full games and these girls were dialed in”.

Laporte also took a moment to reflect on her team’s journey, "I am so proud to be their coach, and work alongside these amazing 17 athletes every single day. They make me so proud, and the way we came together in this tournament finals, just showed our character and how we are truly a family. So honoured to coach for Airdrie and these amazing young ladies!”

Team captain Deanna Young also shared her pride in the team’s performance and success. “I am beyond grateful to have been given the opportunity to captain this team and thanks to coach, have the opportunity to represent AMHA, Alberta, and CANADA in Nashville”. Young commented, “Additionally, we couldn’t be in the position we’re in without our families and parents. This is a phenomenal group; each individual plays a unique roll, and we wouldn’t be the team we are without every player on this team. The love and compassion, on and off the ice, that we have for one another has factored greatly in our success this year and has turned this team into a family”.

The Airdrie Lightning U18AA team’s gold medal win at the Preds Girls Classic is a significant accomplishment, one that highlights the team’s skill, resilience, and unity. Congratulations to the entire team and coaching staff for their outstanding performance, and we look forward to seeing them continue to shine on the ice throughout the rest of the season.

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