Affiliate Sites expand
Hockey Canada logo

Hockey Canada statement in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)

HC Communications
|
March 12, 2020

CALGARY, Alta. – The following is a statement on behalf of Hockey Canada from Tom Renney, chief executive officer, and Scott Smith, president and chief operating officer, on the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Without question, this is an unprecedented period of difficulty for the sports world. The health and safety of all participants in sport, including players, coaches, staff, officials, fans, family, volunteers and the general public, is of the utmost importance to Hockey Canada.

After much consultation with the Hockey Canada membership, our chief medical officer and public health officials, the Hockey Canada Board of Directors has made the decision to cancel all Hockey Canada-sanctioned activities, including our national championships, until further notice, effective Friday, March 13, 2020.

We recognize the tremendous effort that has been put forth all year by individuals across the country as they participate in Canada’s game. Although it is difficult to process the hockey season ending abruptly, we feel this is the best course of action in order to do our part in keeping our country safe.”

Update on appeal process of independent adjudicative report

NR.060.24
|
September 11, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – In November 2023, Hockey Canada issued a public update regarding the report of the independent adjudicative panel that held a hearing to determine whether certain members of the 2018 National Junior Team breached Hockey Canada’s code of conduct, and if so, what sanctions should be imposed against those players.

Shortly after the panel provided its final adjudicative report to all involved parties, a notice of appeal was filed, as is permitted under Hockey Canada’s Investigation and Adjudication Procedure, and an independent appeal board was formed to oversee the appeal hearing.

Yesterday, Hockey Canada was informed by the independent appeal board that it has granted a motion to adjourn the appeal hearing until after the criminal trial involving five members of the 2018 National Junior Team, each of whom remain suspended from Hockey Canada-sanctioned programming, has ended.

As noted in the independent appeal board’s reasons for decision, Hockey Canada has sought to proceed expeditiously throughout the appeal process, and any further delay has resulted from the appeal board’s decision on the adjournment motion, and not from anything Hockey Canada has failed to do.

To ensure that we do not interfere with the integrity of the appeal process or the ongoing criminal proceedings, we are not able to share further details at this time.

View More

48 players invited to Canada’s National Women’s Team September Camp, presented by BFL CANADA

21 world champions among group of players to begin 2024-25 season in Thorold

NR.058.24
|
September 03, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada has invited 48 of the nation’s best players to Canada’s National Women’s Team September Camp, presented by BFL CANADA, Sept. 9-15 at Canada Games Park in Thorold, Ontario.

Six goaltenders, 16 defence and 26 forwards were selected by general manager Gina Kingsbury (Rouyn-Noranda, QC/Toronto, PWHL), senior manager of player development and scouting Cherie Piper (Scarborough, ON) and head coach Troy Ryan (Spryfield, NS/Toronto, PWHL). Assistant coaches Kori Cheverie (New Glasgow, NS/Montréal, PWHL)Caroline Ouellette (Montréal, QC/Concordia University, RSEQ) and Britni Smith (Port Perry, ON/Syracuse University, CHA), and goaltending consultant Brad Kirkwood (Calgary, AB/Toronto, PWHL) also provided input on player selections.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to evaluate the depth of talent in our player pool and set the tone for the upcoming season,” said Kingsbury. “We will also continue to grow and build on our identity as a team as we prepare for the Rivalry Series and ultimately the IIHF Women’s World Championship next April in Czechia.”

The roster includes 21 players who helped Canada capture its 13th gold medal at the 2024 IIHF Women’s World Championship (Ambrose, Bell, Bourbonnais, Campbell, Clark, Desbiens, Fast, Fillier, J. Gosling, N. Gosling, Jenner, Larocque, Maltais, Nurse, O’Neill, Poulin, Rattray, Serdachny, Shelton, Stacey, Turnbull).

It also includes seven players attending their first camp with Canada’s National Women’s Team (Amos, Cooper, Kraemer, Pais, Primerano, Watts, Woods).

The players will be split into Red and White teams for practices, fitness testing and a pair of intrasquad games. Brock University will be hosting the Red-White intrasquad games on Sept. 12 and 14 at Canada Games Park. Click here to purchase tickets. Media wishing to attend camp must apply for accreditation HERE.

Hockey Canada also announced the support staff that will work with Canada’s National Women’s Team for the 2024-25 season:

  • Video coach Andrew Boucher (Timmins, ON)
  • Strength and conditioning coach Vicki Bendus (Wasaga Beach, ON/Montréal, PWHL)
  • Equipment managers Alana Goulden (Aurora, ON/Toronto, PWHL) and Blair Smook (Airdrie, AB)
  • Team physician Laura Bennion (Vancouver, BC)
  • Therapists Christine Atkins (Fort Macleod, AB) and Danielle McNally (Wolfville, NS)
  • Massage therapist Meagan Cowell (London, ON)
  • Mental performance consultant Sommer Christie (Montréal, QC)
  • Senior hockey operations manager Dylan Rockwell (Calgary, AB)
  • Hockey operations manager Savannah Newton (Halifax, NS)
  • Hockey operations coordinator Cassidy Wait (North Vancouver, BC)
  • Media relations manager Esther Madziya (Lethbridge, AB)

 

For a complete list of camp support staff, please click here.

Following September camp, players will prepare for the season with their PWHL and college teams before a roster is named for the first international competition of the season, the 2024-25 Rivalry Series starting Nov. 6 in San Jose, California.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Women’s Team, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on FacebookX and Instagram.

View More

National Women's Under-18 Team named for series vs. United States

Team Canada to face U.S. in three-game series, Aug. 14-17 in Thorold, ON

NR.055.24
|
August 11, 2024

THOROLD, Ontario – Hockey Canada has announced the roster for Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team for a three-game series against the United States, Aug. 14-17 at Canada Games Park.

Twenty-three players – three goaltenders, seven defence and 13 forwards – will wear the Maple Leaf. The roster includes five players (Cimeroni, Grenier, Manness, Primerano, Zablocki) who captured a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship in Zug, Switzerland.

The team was selected by Dylan Rockwell (Calgary, AB), senior manager of hockey operations, and Cherie Piper (Scarborough, ON), senior manager of scouting and player development. Head coach Vicky Sunohara (Scarborough, ON/University of Toronto, OUA), assistant coaches Marc-André Côté (Montreal, QC/University of Moncton, AUS) and Stefanie McKeough (Carlsbad Springs, ON/Boston, PWHL), and goaltending coach Sheldon Goertzen (Saskatoon, SK/University of Saskatchewan, CW) also provided input.

“We have an incredibly promising group set to face off against the United States,” said Sunohara. “These players know our goal is to improve every day and we have been able to see the progress through selection camp. The series provides an excellent opportunity to develop our players and prepare them for more international competition later in the season.”

Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team and Canada’s National Women’s Development Team will face the United States on Aug. 14, Aug. 15 and Aug. 17. All U18 games will begin at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT, while the development games will start at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Women’s Program, please visit HockeyCanada.ca or follow through social media on FacebookX and Instagram.

View More

Camrose to host 2024 Junior A World Challenge

Annual Junior A showcase returns to Camrose for the first time since 2008

NR.054.24
|
August 09, 2024

CAMROSE, Alberta – The Junior A World Challenge, an international showcase of some of the best young hockey talent from around the world, will return to Camrose for the first time since 2008 when Encana Arena plays host from Dec. 9-15.

The 2024 Junior A World Challenge represents a partnership between Hockey Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), Hockey Alberta, NHL Central Scouting and the local organizing committee. 

“Hosting a prestigious tournament like the Junior A World Challenge fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. We know our community will come together, support the event and create an exciting atmosphere for fans and teams,” said tournament co-chair Boris Rybalka, who coached Canada West when Camrose hosted in 2008, and won gold at the first two editions of the tournament in 2006 and 2007.

“We are grateful to the volunteers, fans, scouts and sponsors for supporting the tournament and are grateful to Hockey Canada for entrusting us to host this event,” added co-chair Ken Duggan.

The Junior A World Challenge has historically had an economic impact of over $3 million to host communities.

“Communities across Alberta have proven to be excellent hosts for multiple Hockey Canada events and we know Camrose will carry on that tradition with the 2024 Junior A World Challenge,” said Dean McIntosh, senior vice-president of revenue, fan experience and community impact with Hockey Canada. “We look forward to welcoming teams and fans in our return to Camrose, and leaving a lasting legacy while also fostering the growth and support of hockey in the region.” 

Since the event’s inception in 2006, more than 300 NHL draft picks have played in the tournament, including 45 first-round selections – a list that includes Brock Boeser, Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, Dylan Holloway, Elias Lindholm, David Pastrnak, Jaden Schwartz, Vladimir Tarasenko and Andrei Vasilevski.

The official tournament schedule and ticket information will be announced at a later date.

For more information on the Junior A World Challenge, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on Facebook or X and Instagram.

 

View More

Rosters set for National Women's Under-18 Team selection camp and National Women's Development Team series vs. U.S.

U18 selection camp, presented by BFL CANADA, set for Aug. 5-11 in Thorold, ON

NR.053.24
|
August 01, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada has announced the rosters for Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team selection camp, presented by BFL CANADA, and Canada’s National Women’s Development Team for its three-game series against the United States.

Forty-six players – six goaltenders, 14 defence and 26 forwards – have been invited to U18 selection camp, scheduled for Aug. 5-11 at Canada Games Park in Thorold, Ontario. The roster includes five players (Cimeroni, Grenier, S. Manness, Primerano, Zablocki) who captured a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship in Zug, Switzerland.

The week-long camp will feature on- and off-ice training sessions and practices, as well as three Red-White games on Aug. 7-10. Once selected, Team Canada will play a three-game series against the United States, Aug. 14-17 at Canada Games Park.

“The selection camp is a crucial step as it serves as the first step in our program for this group of talented athletes. Our coaches and support staff are eager to begin guiding and developing these players,” said Vicky Sunohara (Scarborough, ON/University of Toronto, OUA), head coach of Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team. “We anticipate a high-level of competition during the camp as the players compete to earn a spot to represent Canada on the international stage during the series and beyond.”

Twenty-four players – three goaltenders, eight defence and 13 forwards – have been named to Canada’s National Women’s Development Team for its three-game series against the United States from Aug. 14-17 at Canada Games Park in Thorold.

The roster includes 10 players (Adam, Amos, Baxter, Grober, Iginla, MacLeod, Murphy, Pais, Regalado, Swiderski) who won gold at the 2022 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship in Madison, Wisconsin, and nine players (Alexander, Amos, Baxter, Graham, Grober, Kraemer, Murphy, Pais, Venusio) who won gold at the 2023 U18 Women’s Worlds in Östersund, Sweden.

“We are excited about the highly accomplished athletes that will join us with the development team this year as they return to the international stage against the United States,” said Alison Domenico (Ottawa, ON/University of Ottawa, OUA), head coach of Canada’s National Women’s Development Team. “Our coaching staff is very eager to work with this group, which includes a good mix of returning players as well as some new faces, as we continue their development as athletes in our program.”

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Women’s Program, please visit HockeyCanada.ca or follow through social media on FacebookX and Instagram.

View More

Hockey Canada Foundation to provide $1 million in registration assists in 2024-25

HCF Assist Fund returns for fifth season to remove financial barriers for Canadian children playing hockey

NR.052.24
|
August 01, 2024

TORONTO, Ontario - The Hockey Canada Foundation has committed $1 million for its Assist Fund during the 2024-25 hockey season, which will be distributed as registration-fee subsidies for young Canadians playing hockey and facing financial barriers.

Since it launched in 2020, the Assist Fund has helped nearly 10,000 Canadian children from diverse backgrounds to participate in competitive and non-competitive hockey, including over 3,000 who identify with Black, Indigenous or racialized communities.

“The Assist Fund is a critical program for our foundation to help more children get on the ice and experience the positive benefits of playing hockey from coast to coast to coast,” said Donna Iampieri, executive director of the Hockey Canada Foundation. “Through the leadership and contributions of our volunteer board of directors, partners, staff and the many Canadians who donate to the Hockey Canada Foundation each year, we are proud to commit $1 million in assists to those who need it the most in our communities.”

Each approved recipient will receive up to a $500 assist, which can be applied to registration fees this season with minor hockey associations sanctioned by Hockey Canada.

To enhance the impact of the Assist Fund, 100 per cent of all donated funds from Canadians will go towards applicants of the program. Donations can be made at AssistFund.HockeyCanadaFoundation.ca.

The application process for the Assist Fund is now open and can be found here.

To learn more about the Hockey Canada Foundation, please visit HockeyCanadaFoundation.ca, or follow along through social media on FacebookLinkedInX and Instagram.

View More
Jon Cooper, Peter DeBoer, Bruce Cassidy, Rick Tocchet and Misha Donskov.

Coaching staff named for 4 Nations Face-Off

Bruce Cassidy, Peter DeBoer, Rick Tocchet, Misha Donskov named assistant coaches

NR.051.24
|
July 30, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the National Hockey League (NHL) and National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA), has announced the coaching and support staffs for the 4 Nations Face-Off, set for Feb. 12-20 in Montréal, Québec, and Boston, Massachusetts.

Assistant coaches Bruce Cassidy (Ottawa, ON/Vegas, NHL), Peter DeBoer (Dunnville, ON/Dallas, NHL), Rick Tocchet (Scarborough, ON/Vancouver, NHL) and Misha Donskov (London, ON/Dallas, NHL), and video coach James Emery (Calgary, AB) have been named to the coaching staff alongside Jon Cooper (Prince George, BC/Tampa Bay, NHL), who was named head coach in June.

The coaching staff was selected by Cooper, general manager Don Sweeney (St. Stephen, NB/Boston, NHL), associate GM Jim Nill (Hanna, AB/Dallas, NHL), assistant GM Julien BriseBois (Greenfield Park, QC/Tampa Bay, NHL) and director of player personnel Kyle Dubas (Sault Ste. Marie, ON/Pittsburgh, NHL), with support from Scott Salmond (Creston, BC), senior vice-president of high performance and hockey operations.

“I am excited to welcome Bruce, Peter, Misha, Rick and James to the coaching staff for the 4 Nations Face-Off, as this is a highly-skilled group of coaches that bring impressive accolades and experience at all levels of the game,” Cooper said. “I know our players will greatly benefit from this world-class coaching staff, and I look forward to working alongside all five and representing Canada in international competition in February.”

Cassidy has served as the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights for the past two seasons (2022-24), winning the Stanley Cup in 2023. He joined Vegas after more than five seasons (2018-22) as head coach of the Boston Bruins, leading the Bruins to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019 and winning the Jack Adams Award in 2019-20. Cassidy also served one season (2016-17) as an assistant with Boston, as well as eight seasons (2008-16) as head coach of the AHL’s Providence Bruins. He was also the head coach of the Washington Capitals (2002-04), an assistant with the Chicago Blackhawks (2005-06), head coach of the OHL’s Kingston Frontenacs (2006-08) and head coach of the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins in (2001-02), winning the Louis A.R. Pieri Award as AHL coach of the year. As a player, Cassidy represented Canada at the 1984 IIHF World Junior Championship and suited up for Canada’s National Men’s Team during the 1986-87 season.

DeBoer has been the head coach of the Dallas Stars for the past two seasons (2022-24) after more than two seasons as head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights (2020-22). He has also served as head coach of the San Jose Sharks (2015-19), New Jersey Devils (2011-14) and Florida Panthers (2008-11), making two appearances in the Stanley Cup Final (2012, 2016). DeBoer also served as an assistant coach with the OHL’s Detroit Jr. Red Wings (1993-95), as well as GM and head coach of the Detroit Jr. Whalers (1995-97), Plymouth Whalers (1997-2001) and Kitchener Rangers (2001-08), winning the Memorial Cup in 2003. Internationally, he was an assistant coach at the 1998 and 2005 IIHF World Junior Championships, winning gold in 2005, and was an assistant at four IIHF World Championships (2010, 2011, 2014, 2015), winning gold in 2015. He was also named an assistant with Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, but was unable to attend.

Tocchet is entering his second full season as head coach of the Vancouver Canucks after winning the Jack Adams Award in 2023-24. Previously, he spent three years as an assistant coach with the Pittsburgh Penguins (2014-17), winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017. Tocchet has also served as head coach (2017-21) and assistant coach (2005-06) with the Arizona Coyotes, assistant (2008-09) and head coach (2009-10) of the Tampa Bay Lightning, and an assistant coach with the Colorado Avalanche (2002-04). He played 1,144 NHL games over 18 seasons, winning the Stanley Cup with Pittsburgh in 1992. He also won the Canada Cup twice (1987, 1991) and suited up for Canada’s National Men’s Team at the 1990 IIHF World Championship.

Donskov is entering his second season as an assistant coach with the Dallas Stars. Previously, he spent more than three years (2020-23) as an assistant coach and four (2016-20) as director of hockey operations with the Vegas Golden Knights, winning the Stanley Cup in 2023. He was also an assistant coach with the OHL’s London Knights (2009-12) and held the position of assistant general manager for one season (2011-12), winning an OHL championship in 2012. He also served as an associate coach with the OHL’s Ottawa 67’s and video coach with Canada’s National Men’s Under-18 Team before joining Hockey Canada in 2014 as manager of hockey operations, analytics and video, winning two IIHF World Championship gold medals – one as video coach (2015) and one as assistant coach (2016) - and a gold medal at the 2015 IIHF World Junior Championship as video coach. He also won the 2016 World Cup of Hockey as an assistant coach and the 2019 Spengler Cup as director of hockey operations and assistant coach with Canada’s National Men’s Team.

The support staff that will work with Canada’s entry at the 4 Nations Face-Off includes:

  • Athletic therapists Kent Kobelka (Revelstoke, BC/Calgary, NHL) and Domenic Nicoletta (Sault Ste. Marie, ON/Ottawa, NHL)
  • Massage therapist Andy Hüppi (Schmerikon, SUI)
  • Team physician Dr. Ian Auld (Victoria, BC/Calgary, NHL)
  • Equipment managers John Forget (Oshawa, ON/Ottawa, NHL) and Darren Granger (Brandon, MB/Los Angeles, NHL)
  • Hockey operations managers Mitchell Furlotte (Bathurst, NB) and Kurt Keats (Winnipeg, MB)
  • Media relations director Sean Kelso (Vancouver, BC/Calgary, NHL)
  • Media relations manager Spencer Sharkey (Hamilton, ON)

“We believe we have assembled an elite group of coaches and support staff that will be key contributors to Team Canada’s success as we continue to prepare for international competition this season,” Sweeney said. “Each individual brings unique experience to our team that will prepare our players to be at their best, and we know everyone is excited for the opportunity to wear the Maple Leaf with pride.”

Canada will open the 4 Nations Face-Off against Sweden on Feb. 12, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT at the Bell Centre in Montréal. It will also take on the United States on Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in Montréal and Finland on Feb. 17 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT at TD Garden in Boston before the tournament concludes with the championship on Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in Boston.

Canada’s full roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off will be announced between Nov. 29 and Dec. 2. For more information, please visit the official tournament page.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Men’s Team, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on Facebook, X and Instagram.

View More

Coaching staffs set for national women’s teams

Vicky Sunohara to lead National Women’s Under-18 Team as head coach, Alison Domenico to take charge of National Women’s Development Team

NR.049.24
|
July 30, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada has unveiled the coaching staffs for Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team and Canada’s National Women’s Development Team for the 2024-25 season, including three-game series against the United States in August.

Team Canada legend Vicky Sunohara (Scarborough, ON/University of Toronto, OUA) will take the reins as head coach of Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team, while Alison Domenico (Ottawa, ON/University of Ottawa, OUA) will lead Canada’s National Women’s Development Team behind the bench.

“We’re thrilled about the coaching staffs for the women’s development and under-18 programs that have joined us for the upcoming season,” said Dylan Rockwell (Calgary, AB), senior manager of hockey operations. “These steps in the program require a high-level of commitment from our coaches, who continue to return year after year to guide and develop our athletes. We look forward to the professionalism and skill the coaches will bring in leading our teams on the international stage this year.”

Following her role as an assistant coach during the 2021-22 and 2023-24 seasons, Sunohara will make her international head coaching debut. She will be joined by assistant coaches Marc-André Côté (Montreal, QC/University of Moncton, AUS) and Stefanie McKeough (Carlsbad Springs, ON/Boston, PWHL), as well as goaltending consultant Sheldon Goertzen (Saskatoon, SK/University of Saskatchewan, CW) and video coach Andrew Boucher (Timmins, ON).

Sunohara is entering her 14th season as head coach of the University of Toronto women’s hockey team, winning Ontario University Athletics (OUA) and U SPORTS Coach of the Year honours in three-consecutive seasons (2020-23) and leading the Blues to the U SPORTS national championship tournament in 2022 and 2023. Internationally, she won a gold medal as an assistant coach at the 2022 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship and bronze at the 2024 tournament. As a player, Sunohara won two Olympic gold medals and seven IIHF World Women’s Championship gold medals, and ranks 10th all-time in National Women’s Team scoring with 119 points (56-63—119) in 164 games.

Côté is entering his 13th season with the University of Moncton women’s hockey team, serving the last six seasons as head coach and the previous six as an assistant. He has also served as an assistant coach for a pair of three-game series against the United States, once with Canada’s National Women’s Development Team (2022) and once with Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team (2023). As a player, Côté won a gold medal at the 2004 Junior World Cup with Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team and bronze at the 2004 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge with Quebec.

McKeough is entering her second season as an assistant coach with PWHL Boston, taking the role shortly after her appointment as head coach of the University of Ottawa women’s hockey team in 2023. She served as an assistant coach for the Gee-Gees for two seasons (2021-23), as well as head coach of Göteborg HC of the Svenka Damhockeyligen (SDHL) in Sweden during the 2020 season following two years as an assistant. Internationally, she captured a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship as an assistant coach and a gold medal in 2023. As a player, McKeough won a silver medal with Canada at the 2009 IIHF World Women’s U18 Championship.

Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team selection camp, presented by BFL CANADA, will take place Aug. 5-10 at Canada Games Park in Thorold, Ontario. Once selected, the team will play a three-game series against the United States, Aug. 14-17 at Canada Games Park.

For a full list of staff for Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team and a list of camp support staff, please click here.

With Canada’s National Women’s Development Team, Domenico will make her international head coaching debut alongside assistant coaches Rachel Flanagan (Pontypool, ON/University of Guelph, OUA) and Tara Watchorn (Newcastle, ON/Boston University, HE), as well as goaltending consultant Katie Greenway (Guelph, ON) and video coach Jessie Leung (Penticton, BC/Okanagan Hockey Academy, CSSHL).

Domenico was recently named head coach of the University of Ottawa women’s hockey team after over a decade as an assistant coach in the NCAA with Ohio State University (2010-11), Syracuse University (2011-18) and Providence College (2018-21). Internationally, she has won gold medals as an assistant coach with Canada’s National Women’s Team at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games and 2022 IIHF Women’s World Championship. As a player, she won gold with Ontario Red at the 2005 National Women’s Under-18 Championship and with Ontario at the 2003 Canada Winter Games.

Flanagan is an assistant coach with PWHL Toronto after serving 16 seasons as head coach of the University of Guelph women’s hockey team. During her tenure at Guelph, Flanagan led the Gryphons to a U SPORTS national championship in 2019, in addition to three OUA titles, and has been named the OUA Coach of the Year on five occasions. She previously served as an assistant coach with Canada’s National Women’s Team during the Rivalry Series in 2022-23, has been as an assistant with Canada’s National Women’s Development Team three times (2011, 2012, 2022) and was recognized as a BFL Female Coach of the Year in 2020-21.

Watchorn is entering her second season as head coach at Boston University after becoming the first head coach of Stonehill College’s women’s hockey team (2021-23), earning NEWHA Coach of the Year honours in the program’s inaugural season. Prior to joining Stonehill, Watchorn served as an assistant coach with Boston University for four seasons (2017-20). A 2014 Olympic gold medallist as a player, she was named head coach of Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team last year, earning a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship after winning back-to-back gold medals as an assistant coach in 2022 and 2023.

Canada’s National Women’s Development Team will gather in Thorold, Ontario, for a three-game series against the United States from Aug. 14-17.

For a full list of staff for Canada’s National Women’s Development Team, please click here.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Women’s Program, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on Facebook, X and Instagram.

View More

Hockey Canada statement on passing of Murray Costello

Former Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and Hockey Canada president passes away at age 90

July 29, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – The following is a statement on behalf of Hockey Canada from president and chief executive officer Katherine Henderson, on the passing of Murray Costello.

“Hockey Canada is deeply saddened to learn that long-time hockey executive Murray Costello, who led the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA) and Hockey Canada as president for two decades, passed away Saturday at the age of 90, surrounded by his family.

Born in South Porcupine, Ontario, Murray played four seasons in the National Hockey League with the Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings, which began his long and storied career in hockey.

As the president of the CAHA, Murray created the Program of Excellence and was instrumental in organizing the first International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Women’s Championship in 1990. Four years later, he led the merger of the CAHA and Hockey Canada.

Internationally, Murray was a member of the IIHF Council from 1998 to 2012, including as vice-president for five years, and was a fierce advocate for the growth of women’s hockey in Canada and around the world.

In 2005, Murray was inducted as a builder into the Hockey Hall of Fame, one of many accolades he received recognizing his significant accomplishments to the sport.

He became an IIHF Lifetime Member in 2012 and was appointed as an officer of the Order of Canada one year later. Among his other accomplishments, Murray was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and IIHF Hall of Fame, and was invested into the Order of Hockey in Canada.

Hockey Canada sends our condolences to Murray’s family and friends, and everyone he positively impacted throughout his life and tremendous career in hockey. His legacy will continue to benefit hockey in Canada and internationally for generations to come.”

View More
Kyle Dubas and Julien BriseBois.

Management group additions announced for 4 Nations Face-Off

Julien BriseBois to serve as assistant general manager; Kyle Dubas named director of player personnel

NR.048.24
|
July 23, 2024

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada has announced that a pair of veteran National Hockey League (NHL) general managers have been added to its management group for the 4 Nations Face-Off, set for Feb. 12-20 in Montréal, Québec, and Boston, Massachusetts.

Two-time Stanley Cup champion Julien BriseBois (Greenfield Park, QC/Tampa Bay, NHL) will make his international management debut as assistant general manager, while Kyle Dubas (Sault Ste. Marie, ON/Pittsburgh, NHL), who served as associate GM at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, has been named director of player personnel alongside general manager Don Sweeney (St. Stephen, NB/Boston, NHL) and associate GM Jim Nill (Hanna, AB/Dallas, NHL).

In addition, BriseBois and Dubas have been named to Canada’s Men’s Olympic Team management group as assistant general manager and director of player personnel, respectively. They will work alongside GM Doug Armstrong (Sarnia, ON/St. Louis, NHL) and assistant general managers Sweeney and Nill, as well as player relations advisor Ryan Getzlaf (Regina, SK/Anaheim, NHL) and Scott Salmond (Creston, BC), senior vice-president of high performance and hockey operations. Katherine Henderson (Thunder Bay, ON), Hockey Canada’s president and chief executive officer, and Pat McLaughlin (Saint John, NB), chief operating officer and executive vice-president of strategy, will also provide support as part of the executive committee preparing for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

“Julien and Kyle are accomplished NHL general managers, and I am excited to welcome them to our management group for both the 4 Nations Face-Off and Olympics, as I believe they will be strong assets to a well-rounded management team,” Armstrong said. “Both Julien and Kyle have enjoyed long and successful careers, and we believe their experience and knowledge of NHL players will be a great addition to our staff as we continue to evaluate Canadian players and build rosters for international competition.”

BriseBois has been the general manager and vice-president of hockey operations with the Tampa Bay Lightning for six seasons (2018-24), winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. Previously, he served as assistant general manager of Tampa Bay (2010-18) and general manager of the Syracuse Crunch and Norfolk Admirals (2010-19) of the American Hockey League (AHL), winning the Calder Cup in 2012. He also spent time with the Montréal Canadiens, serving as vice-president of hockey operations (2006-10), director of hockey operations (2003-06) and director of legal affairs (2001-03), and was also the general manager of the AHL’s Hamilton Bulldogs (2007-10), winning the Calder Cup in 2007.

Dubas is entering his second season as general manager and president of hockey operations with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Previously, he spent nine seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs, serving five seasons (2018-23) as general manager, becoming the second-youngest GM in NHL history. He also spent four seasons (2014-18) as assistant general manager and GM of the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League (AHL), leading the team to its first Calder Cup championship in 2018. Dubas started his front-office career with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), serving four seasons (2003-07) as a scout and three seasons (2011-14) as general manager.

“Jim and I are thrilled to have Julien and Kyle join our management group for the 4 Nations Face-Off, and to work alongside them as we prepare for the Olympics,” Sweeney said. “Both are successful NHL general managers that bring a wealth of knowledge, many years of experience at the professional level and great leadership skills that will be beneficial to our coaches, support staff and players.”

Canada will open the 4 Nations Face-Off against Sweden on Feb. 12, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT at the Bell Centre in Montréal. It will also take on the United States on Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in Montréal and Finland on Feb. 17 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT at TD Garden in Boston before the tournament concludes with the championship game on Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in Boston.

The full roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off will be announced between Nov. 29-Dec. 2, while the assistant coaches and support staff will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information on the 4 Nations Face-Off, please visit the official tournament page.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Men’s Team, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on Facebook, X and Instagram.

View More

For more information:

Esther Madziya
Manager, Communications
Hockey Canada

(403) 284-6484 

[email protected] 

Spencer Sharkey
Manager, Communications
Hockey Canada

(403) 777-4567

[email protected]

Jeremy Knight
Manager, Corporate Communications
Hockey Canada

(647) 251-9738

[email protected]

Videos
Photos
play_logo
BFL: Celebrating the best behind the bench
play_logo
HCF: Assist Fund in Action – Simon
play_logo
HCF: Dreams Come True in Membertou
play_logo
MWC: Highlights – SWE 4, CAN 2 (Bronze Medal)
play_logo
MWC: Highlights – SUI 3, CAN 2 SO (Semifinal)
play_logo
MWC: Highlights – CAN 6, SVK 3 (Quarterfinal)
play_logo
MWC: Highlights – CAN 4, CZE 3 OT (Preliminary)
play_logo
MWC: Remembering the wild ride in Riga
play_logo
Centennial: Highlights – Collingwood 1, Melfort 0 (Championship)
play_logo
MWC: Highlights – CAN 3, SUI 2 (Preliminary)
play_logo
MWC: Highlights – CAN 5, FIN 3 (Preliminary)
play_logo
NMT: Evason brings passion and pride to Prague
Schedule
HC Logo
Quispamsis, NB
Date: Nov 3 to 9
HC Logo
Sarnia, ON
Date: Nov 3 to 9
HC Logo
San Jose, CA | Salt Lake City, UT | Boise, ID | Halifax, NS | Summerside, PE
Date: Nov 6 to Feb 8