When you often inquire about upcoming information regarding several sports teams and/or organization the one thing you learn fast is that they either seldom return your call or text messages.
When you finally get in touch with them after a while they just mention that they were busy, which is true, but being tardy isn’t an excuse when they are trying to promote amateur sports.
We recently received info from the BCHL regarding the league’s All-Star Weekend which is being held in Spruce Grove, Alta. at Thompson Family Arena Jan. 16 to 18, 2026 which is the home rink of the Spruce Grove Saints.
The Saints joined the BCHL in 2024 and currently in their second full season that saw the new rink open September 19th and seats 1,665-seats with the team’s first regular season played in front of a packed house.
Commissioner Steven Cocker mentioned “The BCHL is excited to make our league-wide event debut in Alberta with this year’s All-Star Weekend in Spruce Grove,”
He continued “We witnessed firsthand this state-of-the-art facility at the Saints’ home-opener and were immediately impressed by the facility and local support. We can’t wait to get out there in January and showcase the best the league has to offer.”
Saints owner Lindsey Leckelt mentioned “Being awarded the 2026 BCHL All-Star Weekend is a tremendous honor for the Spruce Grove Saints and the City of Spruce Grove,”
Continuing on to mention “The Thompson Family Arena will provide a state-of-the-art experience for this showcase and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome players, families and fans from across the league.”
“This event is about more than hockey – it’s a celebration of our community’s spirit, hospitality and passion for the game. We’re proud to share this milestone with our supporters and look forward to creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
This is the fourth time the BCHL will host All-Star Weekend in recent years with last season’s event taking place in Salmon Arm, B.C.
For the second year in a row, the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) will be part of the event, and this year, the Junior Prospects Hockey League (JPHL) will also participate in the festivities.
“Since we debuted this event in 2022, it has become one of the most anticipated weekends on the BCHL calendar,” said Connor Ewert, Events Manager for the league. “This year, we are looking forward to introducing an exciting new format that will give the fans in Spruce Grove a unique and entertaining experience, while also keeping the foundation of what makes this event special.”
No doubt the game will be played in front of a packed house!!