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.
The Last Five Host Communities Recap:
High Prairie – High Prairie’s recent Pathway to Hockey event introduced six females to the sport, with two receiving donated gear and now deciding to join Minor Hockey next season. The event secured additional donated equipment—including sticks, skates, helmets, and full gear—from Sport Central in Edmonton. Their initiative aimed to reduce financial barriers and provide families with the resources needed to enroll their athletes in hockey.
The event focused on mentorship, skill development, and empowerment for female athletes aged 4-17. Younger players (U11 and under) were paired with older athletes from the Fairview Flyers and High Prairie Timberwolves, who supported Guest Coach Stacy Cosgrove in leading on-ice training sessions. A total of 40 female athletes from four communities, one First Nation, and one Métis Settlement participated, engaging in team-building activities, skill development, and a culminating game between the Flyers and Timberwolves.
Parents and coaches shared positive feedback, emphasizing the impact of mentorship and structured training in building confidence and physical play. Coaches across Minor Hockey Associations have noticed improvements in players who attended, particularly in their grit and ability to use body positioning effectively during practices and games. Thanks to the collaboration and dedication of the High Prairie hockey community, this event helped create new opportunities for female athletes to develop their skills and passion for the game.
Sturgeon - Sturgeon’s Female Hockey Day saw 91 participants and 18 volunteers come together to celebrate the growth and development of female hockey. As part of Hockey Alberta’s Female Hockey Day initiative, the event provided opportunities for players, parents, coaches, and supporters to engage in the sport through a Try Hockey session and two Fillies Fun Skates for U7 to U18 athletes.
The event welcomed girls aged 4 to 18, offering a chance to experience hockey in a fun and supportive environment. Veteran players shared their passion for the game, while coaches and volunteers provided guidance to ensure a positive experience for all skill levels. By promoting inclusivity and fostering a love for hockey, Female Hockey Day continues to inspire the next generation of female athletes.
Bonnyville- Bonnyville’s Female Hockey Day welcomed 150 participants and was supported by three dedicated volunteers, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. A major highlight was the visit from Olympian Kasia Gruchalla-Wesierski, who shared her powerful story of resilience and perseverance. Her message left a lasting impact, with participants buzzing about her inspiring words for weeks afterward.
Athletes also had the opportunity to engage in an open and insightful discussion with a local athletic therapist, gaining valuable knowledge to support their sports journeys. A high-energy fitness class took many by surprise, as they found themselves loving the challenge and feeling game-ready by the end. The event also featured four female hockey games, allowing players to put their skills to the test in a fun and competitive setting. The day wrapped up with a team-building scavenger hunt that brought athletes together off the ice, fostering friendships beyond competition.
Edmonton - Edmonton Female Hockey Association (EFHA) hosted an exciting HERitage Classic-style Female hockey day event in ford hall and hockey house inside Rogers Place, followed by a PWHL Watch Party featuring the Toronto vs. Ottawa matchup. The event brought together over 60 registered participants and was supported by 20 dedicated volunteers, creating a memorable experience for everyone involved.
One of the most significant moments of the day was Edmonton’s Mayor officially proclaiming February as Female Hockey Month—a major milestone that sets the stage for future events and further elevates the female game in the city.
This celebration also kicked off an exciting stretch for female hockey in Edmonton, leading up to the PWHL Takeover Tour game on February 16 at Rogers Place. The game showcased a wide range of female athletes, from those just starting their hockey journeys to elite EFHL players, reinforcing the growing momentum and opportunities for female hockey in the province.
Lacombe - The excitement surrounding Lacombe’s Female Hockey Day was undeniable, with 59 girls registering for the event. The day featured two on-ice sessions—one for U5-U11 players and another for U13-U18 girls—providing a welcoming space for skill development and fun. Notably, five participants were not registered in minor hockey, coming from ringette, recreational, or pond hockey backgrounds, showcasing the event’s ability to reach new players.
A highlight of the day was the guest speaker, Mel Davidson, who volunteered her time to speak with players, coaches, and parents. Many young athletes were eager to discuss their future opportunities in college and university hockey, and organizers hope to bring her back for future events.
Community support played a vital role in the event’s success, with local businesses from Lacombe, Ponoka, and Blackfalds coming together to provide sponsorship, allowing for a BBQ and generous door prizes. The positive impact was evident in the heartfelt feedback from participants and parents.
One 13-year-old player shared:
"What a fun day! Thank you so much for organizing!"
A mother expressed her gratitude, saying:
"Thank you so much for helping my daughter. She is brand new to hockey, and she said she had a girl that was her assistant, haha! She loved it and now wants to play—we are going to get her into power skating and camps! Great job!"
