Competitive women’s hockey expanding across Saskatchewan

Over the last decade in the province, registration for women’s minor hockey has risen by over 2000 registered players according to Hockey Saskatchewan.

As the popularity of women’s hockey continues to expand across Saskatchewan, so does the need for more leagues and teams.

Over the last decade in the province, registration for women’s minor hockey has risen by over 2,000 registered players according to Hockey Saskatchewan.

Nearly all competitive leagues stop after U-18, but that is 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, one that will extend female playing careers throughout the province.

“At some point we have to say what are we going to do for these girls once they finish their minor hockey careers,” said Kelly McClintock, the general manager of Hockey Saskatchewan. “The better girls, or the girls that are maybe more fortunate to play NCAA, USport or maybe ACAC, they get that opportunity, but what about the rest of them.”

McClintock said the league won’t interfere with current leagues but will instead offer a platform for players aging out of U-18 hockey.

“We don’t want underage players playing, we don’t want to take players away from U-18 hockey. So, it will be kids 18 to 21 playing in this.”

A league of this nature has long been waited for in the province and early signs are showing a strong appetite for its launch.