ATHABASCA – The Athabasca and District Minor Hockey Association (ADMHA) will host the Hockey Alberta U-18 Tier 2 Provincial Championships from March 30 to April 2, which will bring approximately 150 players, coaches, parents and others to the community.
Elissa Ponich, who chairs the association’s 2023 provincial host committee, said in an interview that their goal is to make the provincials a “family-friendly” type of event with a fun atmosphere.
To this end, the association is planning to rent out the fieldhouse at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex for three days to make it available for families to use for free.
In addition, Ponich said they are really working on making this a good experience for those visiting from out of town and they want to highlight the community and its businesses.
It should be noted that the Athabasca U-18 Tier II Hawks have an automatic bye into the tournament, which will feature seven other teams. Though Athabasca is automatically entered as hosts, one other team from the Northern Alberta Interlock Hockey League will advance to provincials and the Hawks are competing in those playoffs right now.
The first round took place this weekend, with Athabasca playing a two-game total-point series against Westlock on Feb. 24 and Feb. 26. Athabasca won both games, scoring a 4-3 victory on Friday and then a 3-0 victory on Sunday.
County request
During their Feb. 23 meeting, Athabasca County councillors reviewed a request from the ADMHA for monetary support with the hosting expenses.
The letter further emphasized how the association wants to make this a memorable event for visitors to Athabasca.
“These aspiring hockey players from throughout the province have worked hard all year long to earn their spot to compete in provincial championships, having first to qualify through their respective leagues,” wrote host committee members Jay Alix and Brad Sakowich.
“For some players, this will be the end of their minor hockey careers and we are aiming to make it as memorable as possible.”
The letter notes this event will also serve as a major fundraiser for the ADMHA and its success will help keep registration fees affordable.
In any case, the ADMHA requested that the county provide them with funding under the county’s Youth Assistance Grant program.
A total of $1,800 has been allocated within the 2023 Budget for the Youth Assistant Grant, which provides up to $500 for organizations and up to $200 for individuals attending or hosting provincial, national or international competitions. None of the funds have been allocated this year.
Councillors ultimately voted unanimously to pass a motion to provide $500 to the association, along with an additional $100 for the running of a silent auction.
