As women’s hockey in Saskatchewan continues to grow in popularity, so does the need for more leagues and teams.
Over the past decade in the province, registration for women’s minor hockey has grown by over 2,000 registered players according to Hockey Saskatchewan.
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Almost all competitive leagues shut down after the Under-18s, but that’s about to change.
Next fall when the puck drops on the 2023-2024 season, a new league for U-22 players will officially be a reality, expanding female sports careers across the province.
Hockey Saskatchewan general manager Kelly McClintock said, “At some point we have to say what we’re going to do for these girls when they finish their minor hockey careers.” “The better girls, or girls who are maybe more fortunate enough to play in the NCAA, USport or maybe the ACAC, get that chance, but what about the rest.”
McClintock said the league would not interfere with existing leagues but would provide a platform for under-18 hockey players to age.
“We don’t want younger players to play, we don’t want to take away players from under-18 hockey. So, 18 to 21 year olds will play in it.”
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A league of this kind has been long awaited in the province and early indications are showing a strong appetite for its launch.
“We did a survey of girls under 22 and 92 percent of respondents said it was a good idea,” McClintock said.
Mike Marek, head coach of the Regina Rebels, said the league is a great opportunity to allow more girls to play the sport and potentially get scouted by college teams.
Marek said, “I think it’s a good idea and being at the under-18 AAA level for a number of athletes who might not be able to get home after a year might give them an opportunity to play another year.”
McClintock said they are expecting to see six teams in the inaugural season, with the opportunity to grow based on interest. Hub applications for Teams will begin rolling out over the next few weeks.
McClintock said, “If they keep playing, I’m hoping and I think everybody’s hoping that maybe in a few years we’ll have some sort of provincial senior league.”
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