WINKLER & MORDEN, Man. – The preliminary-round match-ups have been set for the National Women’s Under-18 Championship, co-hosted by Morden and Winkler from Nov. 5-9, 2019. 

The full event schedule, including pre-tournament games on Nov. 3, will see all eight teams in action through the first three days of competition, before the top four teams move on to the semifinals on Nov. 8.

“This is an excellent opportunity for these athletes to experience how Hockey Canada operates at the highest level,” said Gina Kingsbury, director of women’s national teams. “It’s an excellent display of talent for female hockey, and it’s a chance for these ladies to show how good they are.”

“Hockey Manitoba is looking forward to hosting the National Women’s Under-18 Championship this November in Morden and Winkler,” said Bill Whitehead, president of Hockey Manitoba. “The positive atmosphere, expertise and enthusiasm of the host organizing committee will ensure the event is another community success.”

2019 marks the first time that Manitoba has hosted the National Women’s Under-18 Championship, but Morden is no stranger to hosting Hockey Canada events – it welcomed the Esso Cup, Canada’s National Female Midget Championship, in 2017.

Historically, this event has netted more than $1.5 million in economic impact for the host region, and as with all Hockey Canada events, net proceeds are redirected to support the growth of the game locally.

“It’s exciting to work on the details of the event; everything is coming together quickly,” said Clare Agnew, co-chair of the host committee. “The host organizing committee is building off the success of the 2017 Esso Cup and putting in the effort to make this event unique for the players and hockey fans. It will be a terrific event for the entire region.”

“We have a great group of volunteers that are committed to making this event a success,” said Jordan Driedger, co-chair of the host organizing committee. “We look forward to showcasing our region and providing a great experience for all players, coaches, officials and spectators.

Organizers are now accepting online applications for many of the volunteer roles needed to support the event - from transportation, to team and media services, and fan experience. To apply to be a volunteer, CLICK HERE.

Ticket Packages for the 2019 National Women’s Under-18 Championship will be available for purchase in August. Fans can subscribe to the Hockey Canada fan list at HockeyCanada.ca/FanList to receive ticketing news and updates about the event.

The tournament has long been the first step on the road to Canada’s National Women’s Team; 19 of the 23 players who helped Canada to a bronze medal at the 2019 IIHF Women’s World Championship are alumnae of the tournament, including all-time leading scorer Marie-Philip Poulin, who recorded 30 points in 15 games.

For more information on Hockey Canada and the National Women’s Under-18 Championship, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow through social media on Facebook and Twitter.