Hockey Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League and the National Hockey League have renewed a key partnership agreement, which was originally formed in May 2009. The two-year agreement, with a mutual option for two additional years, will invest in the development of players, coaches and officials involved with Junior A hockey across the country.

“The CJHL plays a vital role in developing players and providing national platforms to showcase their great on-ice product,” said NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly. "We are pleased to continue a great relationship with the CJHL and member Clubs to enhance their prospect events and championship”.

“The profile of Junior A hockey across Canada has grown considerably in recent years thanks in large part to the relationship between Hockey Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League and the National Hockey League,” said Bob Nicholson, president and CEO of Hockey Canada. “We are thrilled this partnership will continue and Junior A’s players and marquee events will continue to be showcased at the highest levels.”

In May 2009, the NHL committed to assist in growing Junior A hockey in Canada through two of its marquee events – the World Junior A Challenge and CJHL Prospects Game. The partnership has created a strong relationship with NHL Central Scouting, allowing scouts access to top Junior A talent in Canada while continuing to assist with player identification and development.  

“The partnership between the CJHL, Hockey Canada and the NHL offers our players exceptional development and exposure and this renewal is important for the continued growth of Junior A hockey in Canada,” said CJHL chairman Kirk Lamb.

The partnership also helps the NHL market its brand on a whole new level. Utilizing the Canadian Junior A fan base to showcase the NHL throughout Canadian markets is an important process that will allow hockey to continue thriving.

“There’s brand exposure, whether it’s through signage at our events or a link between NHL.com and the various Junior A league websites across the country, and that’s important to them,” said Scott Smith, chief operating officer with Hockey Canada, when the original agreement was announced in 2009.