By Hockey Saskatchewan

AVONLEA, Sask. – Hockey Day in Saskatchewan (HDIS) is coming to Avonlea as the village has been chosen to host the 18th edition of the multi-day celebration from January 14 to 18, 2026.

The community will take centre ice on Saturday, January 17, 2026, for the official Hockey Day in Saskatchewan, with a full lineup of events and celebrations to be announced in the coming months. The marquee matchups scheduled at Avonlea Memorial Rink include:

• 1:00 PM – Male Under-18 AAA: Regina Pat Canadians vs. Notre Dame Hounds
• 4:00 PM – Female Under-18 AAA: Regina Rebels vs. Notre Dame Hounds
• 7:00 PM – Male Under-18 AAA: Moose Jaw Warriors vs. Saskatoon Contacts

“Bringing Hockey Day in Saskatchewan to Avonlea is a celebration of everything our sport stands for,” said Kelly McClintock, General Manager of Hockey Saskatchewan. “Each year, the host community is selected not only for its passion for hockey, but also for its vision to restore, enhance, or build new facilities that serve local athletes and families. Avonlea’s commitment to improving its rink reflects the spirit of progress and community pride that HDIS aims to support. Hockey Day in Saskatchewan isn’t just an event; it’s a chance to showcase how hockey strengthens towns, inspires the next generation, and leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.”

This will be the first time Avonlea, a community of roughly 411 residents, hosts HDIS, an event that celebrates both hockey and community. The local rink has been the heart of the village since 1978, and the multi-day event aims to raise funds to support its continued growth and service.

Proceeds are earmarked to help fund upgrades to Avonlea Memorial Rink, including three modern dressing rooms, a referee room, a dryland training area, and expanded parking. The host’s project includes plans to provide inclusive spaces for female players, modern facilities for senior teams and officials, and off-ice training opportunities for athletes.

“It’s an incredible honour for our community to host Hockey Day in Saskatchewan,” said Nick Petruic of the Avonlea Host Committee. “Our rink has always been a gathering place for families, friends, and fans, and this event gives us an opportunity to celebrate that spirit while building for the future. We’re excited to welcome the province to Avonlea and showcase the pride, passion, and hospitality that makes our town special.”

Avonlea’s host committee will mark the HDIS announcement with members of the Saskatchewan Male Under-18 AAA Hockey League’s Regina Pat Canadians and the Saskatchewan Female Under-18 AAA Hockey League’s Regina Rebels on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Avonlea School, featuring floor hockey and speeches from representatives.

Last season, Canora hosted the 17th HDIS and raised $160,500 for rink renovations. Since 2008, the event has generated over $1.57 million to support hockey projects across Saskatchewan. Avonlea’s selection marks the third HDIS hosted in Zone Three, following Gull Lake in 2019 and Assiniboia in 2013.

Check out the official Hockey Day in Saskatchewan website and social media platforms (Facebook and X) for updates.

Provincial Leader in Sport Excellence.

About HOCKEY SASKATCHEWAN

Hockey Saskatchewan was established in 1912 and is the governing body for organized hockey in the province. With a mission to advance hockey through innovation, engagement, and participation, Hockey Saskatchewan encourages competition at all levels – from recreational to high performance. Hockey Saskatchewan has grown through the years and is Saskatchewan’s largest sports organization with over 53,400 members comprised of players, coaches and officials. For more information, please visit www.hockeysask.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.