(Vancouver, BC) The Organizing Committee for the 2006 IIHF World Junior Championship today announced the Official Apparel and Merchandise partners for the upcoming Championship to be held in Vancouver, Kelowna and Kamloops.

“We are extremely pleased to be able to ensure that the Canadian team and Canadian fans, have every opportunity to look and perform at their best during the competition,” said tournament chair, Ron Toigo. “With such an impressive selection of merchandise available to the general public we expect to have the best dressed and most patriotic supporters ever at a World Junior Championship”.

Bauer NIKE Hockey is the Official In-Venue Apparel and exclusive supplier for Hockey Canada. “Through our partnership with Hockey Canada, Bauer NIKE Hockey has worked extensively with elite Team Canada athletes to develop the most innovative equipment and apparel in an effort to enhance athlete performance.  Bauer NIKE Hockey has also developed some of the most popular Hockey Canada branded apparel, including replica jerseys, hats, and shirts.  We’re looking forward to working closely with Hockey Canada to make the 2006 World Junior Championship a great success both on and off the ice” said Global Director, Sports Marketing, Mark Cavanaugh.

British Columbia based Amp Merchandising, is the Official In-Venue Merchandise vendor. “Amp is very excited to be working with the IIHF, Hockey Canada, Bauer NIKE and all the partners involved with the 2006 World Junior Championship. It's a great opportunity for BC to welcome the world and stage an unforgettable event.” said Marketing and Sales Manager, Ryan Arnold.

The 2006 Championships further extends Hockey Canada’s firm relationship with apparel supplier, Bauer NIKE Hockey.  “Hockey Canada is very happy to partner these strong Canadian companies to assist in the execution of the 2006 IIHF World Junior Championship.” added Scott Smith, VP Business Operations.

During the event, patrons will have a broad selection of Official Licensed Merchandise to choose from onsite at the various competition venues and at select retailers across Canada.

2006 IIHF World Junior Championship Merchandise is currently available at select retailers in the BC Lower Mainland, at www.hockeycanada.ca and www.jerseycity.ca.  “Jersey City Canada is proud to be the Official E-Commerce and Mail Order partner for the upcoming World Junior Championship.” said President & CEO Wayne Renick.

The 2006 IIHF World Junior Championship in Kamloops, Kelowna and Vancouver (Dec. to Jan.) will mark the seventh time that this international event has been staged in Canada and the first time it will be held in British Columbia. Other years in which Canada hosted this Championship were in 2003 (Halifax, NS), 1999 (Winnipeg, MB), 1995 (Red Deer, AB), 1991 (Saskatoon, SK), 1986 (Hamilton, ON), and 1978 (Montreal, QC). Grand Forks, North Dakota hosted the event in 2005.