Jackpots for Junior Hockey launches

By Sean Feagan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A new 50/50 draw has been launched to support junior hockey in the province.

Jackpots for Junior Hockey was launched Feb. 22 as a joint venture by the Western Hockey League (WHL) and Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). Proceeds will be shared across Alberta’s five WHL and 15 AJHL teams to offset revenue losses because of the pandemic and suspension of play. But teams will also be required to share a portion of proceeds received with local charities.

The draw is being established after last year’s hockey season was cut short and this year’s season was postponed, said Leela Aheer, Alberta Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women and Chestermere-Strathmore MLA, during a news conference.

“Those disruptions have had negative impacts on the league, our teams and the province – and it’s had an impact on communities that share over $100 million that junior hockey actually injects into all our local economies,” said Aheer.

The WHL and AJHL typically contribute about $56 million and $45 million, respectively, to the Alberta economy annually. More than a million fans attend WHL and AJHL season games each year. Additionally, WHL clubs employ about 1,000 workers.

To support these leagues, the provincial government, through Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), has allowed the draw to be held by amending its policy to permit online ticketing sales for licensed charitable organizations and to conduct 50/50 draws.

“This is a vital step that will help see junior hockey keep going on in Alberta,” said Aheer.

Without the draw, communities would be at risk of losing their teams, said Ryan Bartoshyk, AJHL commissioner. 

“Ensuring that these teams remain viable is not only a vital stimulus for the Alberta economy, but it also helps our communities cope from a physical and mental well-being standpoint,” he said.

The draw will run each weekend in March. Albertans may purchase tickets online from anywhere in the province.

A return to junior hockey is here or almost here, for these two leagues, at least. The WHL was granted an approval by the province to return to play on Jan. 28, with Alberta-based teams opening their season on Feb. 26. The AJHL received approval to restart its season on Feb. 19, with training camp scheduled to start in early March. 

The Strathmore Wheatland Kings Junior B season remains cancelled, however.