Hockey Alberta U11AA League - Inaugural Season Recap

The 2024-25 minor hockey season made history with the inauguration of the U11 AA league. This decision came after the positive feedback received from the two-season long U11 Hockey Alberta Pilot project. This project explored the top U11 hockey in Alberta and came back with excellent results.

This season was composed of 48 teams consisting of talented U11 players from across the province. The goal of creating this level was to bridge the gap between tiered and elite hockey.

“The U11AA League was created to allow the progression of our players, coaches, and officials at the developmental level, filling a void between Tiered and Elite Hockey. One of the most memorable moments throughout the season was the U11 AA Showcase in January, where we saw 47 teams from across the province come together. This showcase was a pivotal moment in which we witnessed teams really excel as they were matched up against similar skill in competition,” said Dana Henfrey, Chair of the U11AA Committee.

The excitement of this historical season was felt throughout the hockey community.

“The first year of the official U11 AA Hockey League has been exciting to watch unfold,” said Morgen Kidney, Hockey Alberta Minor Leagues Coordinator. “The buy-in has been fantastic and development is the primary focus.”

The division was filled with strong athletes and great hockey that made the inaugural season very exciting to experience. The top eight teams made their way to the U11 AA Provincial Championships hosted in Strathmore by the Wheatland Hawks.

“Post-showcase, we have really noticed the competitive sportsmanship of teams leading into Playoffs, with teams earning the right to represent their division at the very first U11 AA Hockey Alberta Provincial Tournament. All in all, this inaugural season can be measured in success by the abundance of smiles on the players’ faces that we’ve seen at the arena,” said Henfrey.

This first showing of this age group’s talent was as incredible as expected.

“The teams that have made it here have persevered and put in the hard work, and it (was) an entertaining weekend filled with great hockey,” said Kidney.

All the teams fought their way through the tournament with grit and determination. On Sunday, semi-finalists battled to win their spot in the championship game. The semi-final A game consisted of the Lakeland Panthers and the Wainwright Polar Kings, sending the Polar Kings to the championship game with a 4-1 win. The semi-final B game was played by the Lethbridge Hurricanes and the Red Deer Chiefs, ending in a 6-3 final sending the Hurricanes to the championships.

The Provincials Championship game was fought hard by both teams. In a 6-3 final, the Lethbridge Hurricanes became the first ever U11 AA Provincial Champions.

“I have been able to watch the development within this league all season, and it has culminated with some of the very best competing this Provincial weekend. I am awestruck to watch the talent and skill that truly defies the age of these players,” said Henfrey.

“I couldn’t have asked for anything more exciting or worthy of an inaugural Provincial weekend! Congratulations once again to the Lethbridge Hurricanes, our first ever U11AA Provincial Champions.”

Winning a provincial championship is an incredible achievement—but winning four in a row is something truly special. For four young athletes and one dedicated coach, their recent U15 Female B provincial victory marked the continuation of an extraordinary streak.

Irma Minor Hockey Association’s very own, Ella Byrne, Wren MacKay, Emory Holt, and Ella Gulbraa, along with coach Clay Holt, have now won four consecutive provincial titles. Their journey started in 2022 with a U13 Female B championship, followed by another U13 Female B title in 2023. In 2024, they moved up to U15 Female A and captured yet another championship before adding the 2025 U15 Female B title to their impressive collection.

This remarkable group has demonstrated resilience, skill, and an undeniable passion for the game. Over the past four seasons, they’ve battled through tough competition, adapting to new challenges, and continuing to find success at every level. Their dedication to the sport and their commitment to their team have been key factors in their ongoing dominance on the provincial stage.

“Watching all the girls develop over the years is what I’m most proud of, and most specifically these four girls this year” shares Head Coach Holt. “During our first two championships, Ella G. and Emory were third-line forwards, while Ella B. and Wren were 4-5 defensemen”.

“Before I talk about this year, you should know that our 2023 championship had this same age group on it. From that year to this season, we lost 10 girls from the 2023 team—seven are playing AA, one went to a development team, and two pursued other sports. So, these four girls were specifically asked to step up, and they did in a huge way.”

Coach Holt went on to describe each player’s unique impact:

• “Ella G. has been small her whole life, so she has developed a very feisty game. If takeaways were a stat in our league, she would be far ahead of second place."

• "Emory is the natural goal scorer; she has soft hands and great feet. Coaching her (my daughter) was a struggle sometimes because she was always right, and I ‘didn’t know what was going on out there!"

• "Ella B. is the girl that coaches love to coach. Whatever direction you give, you get a head nod, and she goes out and does whatever was asked—without ever needing to be told again."
• "Wren was the biggest turnaround of all. For the first five years of hockey, she did not want to be on the ice. That was followed by a couple of years of wanting to learn. Then a switch flipped last year, and she became a beast on the ice—our towering shutdown and offensive d-man.”

Coach Holt also praised their ability to adapt to new roles, sharing, “Ella G. and Emory, who have been best friends since preschool, were asked to be our two centers—positions they had never played before. They finished 1-2 in league scoring, with Ella taking the title by one point. In provincials, Emory led the tournament, with Ella G. just one point behind. Wren and Ella B. became our top two defensemen, leading by example for our first-year girls. These four have won every year since they became provincial-eligible—four and counting—and I don’t think they understand how rare that is.”

Reflecting on the journey, Coach Holt also acknowledged the support from other mentors: “They have had several great coaches and assistants over the years. I’ve just been very fortunate to be the only one to share all four years with them.”

For the players, the experience has been nothing short of incredible, each speaking on how it has impacted them as players:

"I think it really sunk in this year just how lucky we’ve been to get to provincials for four straight years, let alone to win each time. Something that made this year just a bit more special for me is knowing how much my role on the team has changed from the first year to this year. I’ve grown a lot as a player since year one." - Wren MacKay

"Winning provincials for four years in a row has been an amazing and rewarding experience. Every year, it has been just as fun and exciting with all the different girls I’ve met and played with. I feel I have grown a lot from the first year and have become a smarter hockey player. A key to my team’s success is never giving up, even when you’re down, and keeping a positive attitude and mindset." - Emory Holt

"When I was younger, I didn’t realize how lucky I was to go to provincials, but now, especially after winning four times in a row, I’ve realized just how special and exciting it is. It’s something we can be really proud of. Every year, we’ve had a bit of a different team, but we’ve always been lucky to have a great group of girls—on and off the ice. I think that’s part of why we’ve had so much success. We’re always a close, dedicated team, and we’ve had great coaches. Over these four years, I’ve become a much more confident hockey player and have taken on more responsibility and leadership roles." - Ella Byrne

"Winning provincials every year has been so exciting and special. Each year has been with different teammates, and each one has been so fun. Over the years, I think I’ve grown not only as a player but as a person too. Playing with these girls has shown me to never give up—no matter the situation—and to play to the end with a strong mindset." - Ella Gulbraa

Four championships. Four years. One unforgettable run. Congratulations to Ella B, Wren, Emory, Ella G. and Coach Holt on an incredible accomplishment!

For 15-year-old Peyton Walker, hockey has always been more than just a game—it has been a source of strength, community, and determination. A native of Wainwright, Alberta, Peyton is a member of the Lloydminster U18 AAA Steelers. But her path to this season has been anything but ordinary.

Last season, Peyton played for the U15 Steelers with her dad, Scott, serving as team manager. Her team’s journey to U15 Provincials in Airdrie was a highlight—she fondly recalls the banquet, line dancing, and, of course, the competition. But just three days after Provincials, Peyton’s world was turned upside down.

After discovering a lump on her cheek and jaw, she underwent a series of medical tests—CT scans, biopsies, PET scans, and MRIs. The diagnosis was devastating: Stage 3, Group 3 Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

On April 26, she underwent surgery before beginning an intense 67-week chemotherapy regimen at the Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton. For any teenager, such a diagnosis would be overwhelming. But for Peyton, the hardest part wasn’t just the treatments—it was the fear of letting her team down.

She had been set to move up to the U18 team in September and was eager to compete in her second Hockey Alberta Challenge. Knowing she would have to step away from the game she loved was heartbreaking. But true to the resilience that hockey had instilled in her, Peyton approached this battle like any other challenge—head-on, with determination and grit.

In July 2024, Peyton and her family traveled to Jacksonville, Florida, for two months of specialized Proton Radiation Therapy, a cutting-edge treatment not yet available in Canada. The grueling daily radiation sessions, combined with the loneliness of being away from home, made for an incredibly difficult time. But Peyton never faced it alone.

Five days after her diagnosis, a video message from her teammates and coaches poured in, reminding her that her hockey family stood behind her. It was a gesture that meant the world to Peyton—one she still replays on tough days for encouragement.

Her community continued to rally around her. Just six weeks into her battle, her teammates organized a charity golf tournament, bringing together over 200 golfers and 350 attendees. The overwhelming support allowed Peyton and her family to focus on healing rather than the financial strain of treatment.

Throughout her journey, Peyton has been given opportunities that have lifted her spirits in unimaginable ways. She has met hockey superstars like Connor McDavid, Darnell Nurse, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. She’s connected with Carla MacLeod and the entire Ottawa PWHL team. And between hospital visits, she found moments of joy at Universal Studios and Disney World.

But perhaps one of the most impactful moments of Peyton’s journey has been her advocacy work. She has become a passionate supporter of the Ben Stelter Foundation, which recently announced the construction of the Ben Stelter Facility for Proton Radiation Therapy in Edmonton—the first of its kind in Canada. Having experienced firsthand how this treatment saved her life, Peyton is now a fierce advocate for fundraising and awareness, ensuring that more children will have access to life-saving care closer to home.

Peyton recently underwent scans and completed her fourth round of maintenance chemotherapy. While Peyton’s scans are looking promising, she continues treatment with hope and determination, knowing that the finish line is in sight.

Through it all, Peyton has remained an inspiration. She never let losing her hair dim her confidence. She never allowed her diagnosis to define her. And she never made excuses—she simply fought, just as she always has on the ice.

Now, she balances treatment with her love for the game, staying with a billet family in between chemotherapy sessions while attending morning practices, afternoon workouts, and team activities. Her teammates don’t treat her differently, and she wouldn’t want it any other way.

As she sets her sights on returning to full competition in the fall, Peyton has one goal in mind—to battle her way back to the ice and chase an Esso Cup championship.

Her message to others facing challenges is simple:

“Find the courage and determination to accomplish your goals, and don’t be afraid to lean on your teammates when you need them.”

Ridly Greig’s journey through hockey is defined not only by his skill on the ice but also by his relentless determination and leadership. Known for his gritty play, Greig brings an unmatched intensity to every game; Greig’s work ethic and passion make him a standout both on and off the rink.

“Ridly does an amazing job balancing a smart, skilled game with a hard, gritty, physical approach.  You know when he is on the ice, and if you don’t, it won’t take long; he can make an impact either on the score sheet or with a big hit. Off the ice, he is a great teammate who quietly goes about his business. He was a pleasure to coach, and I really enjoy watching him have the success he is experiencing- very well deserved.”
— Mike Dyck, Head Coach U18 AAA Lethbridge Hurricanes

Minor Hockey Associations:

• Lethbridge Minor Hockey Association

Junior Hockey:

• Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

Professional Hockey:

• Belleville Senators (AHL)

• Ottawa Senators (NHL)

Highlights:

• 2017 Alberta Cup Champion

• 2017 WHL Cup Silver Medalist

• 2018 Telus Cup Bronze Medalist

• 2019Hlinka Gretzky Cup Silver Medalist

• Represented Canada at the 2022 World Junior Championships & the 2024 IIHF World Championships.

“Ridly was an absolute pleasure to coach. The thing that separated him beyond his skills was his competitiveness. He would do anything and play any role and certainly tried to make a difference in the game. He worked at his game both on and off the ice and led by example on how to prepare and work. When the game was on the line he wanted to be on the ice and be the difference maker, whether that was blocking a shot or making a play.”
— Don MacGillivray, Head Coach Brandon Wheat Kings

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has named the 120 athletes who will represent their regions at the 2025 Alberta Cup.

Two teams from each of the North, Central, and South regions will face off against each other in a modified round-robin tournament taking place in Red Deer at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre from April 23 to 27. Teams are comprised of the top male athletes from across the province, with each of the six teams roster including two goaltenders, six defencemen, and 12 forwards.

ROSTERS >

Athletes gathered at three Regional Camps over the weekend (March 28-30) in Calgary, Red Deer and Spruce Grove. Male players born in 2010 who participated in Hockey Canada-sanctioned programs this season were eligible to try out.

“There were a lot of very talented kids from across the province who tried out for the Alberta Cup program,” said Blake Cosgrove, Hockey Alberta’s Manager of Elite Hockey Development. “While the Alberta Cup’s focus is player development, it is also a great opportunity to evaluate players for our U16 Team Alberta. We are very excited for this 2010 age group to showcase themselves at the Alberta Cup and future Hockey Alberta events.

The Alberta Cup Provides players and staff with an opportunity to experience elite-level play in a short-term competition and is part of the player evaluation process for selecting Team Alberta to compete at the WHL Cup in October.

Alberta Cup >

Hockey Alberta’s Spring Showcase kicks off with the Alberta Cup. The Alberta Challenge (May 1-4) and the Prospects Cup (May 9-11) will also be played in Red Deer at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre.

There are still limited partnership opportunities available for the 2025 Spring Showcase! The remaining assets can be found in the document below:

2025 Spring Showcase Partnership Opportunities >

The Alberta Cup aids in the identification and selection of potential players for Hockey Alberta’s Team Alberta program, with hundreds of players annually trying out for 120 spots (20 positions on each of the six regional teams). In addition to player development, the Alberta Cup also features opportunities for administrators, referees, coaches, therapists, and equipment managers to be identified for potential positions at higher-level events such as the World U17 Hockey Challenge.

TBS, in partnership with Hockey Alberta, will be running a pre-event online store. A variety of merchandise items are available for purchase, with the deadline to place your order ending at 11:00 pm on April 8th in order to receive your merchandise by the Alberta Cup. Online orders placed by the deadline will be delivered to the event for pickup at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre on April 24. Any questions regarding merchandise can be directed to Alyson Chambers ([email protected]) at Hockey Alberta.

SHOP HERE >