The dedication of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) and the Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) to maintaining their affiliation with Hockey Canada and BC Hockey is a clear indication of their commitment to the safety and development of players in the region. This reaffirmation follows the announcement of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League’s decision to operate independently, marking a significant shift in the landscape of sanctioned Junior A hockey in British Columbia.
According to Jeff Dubois, KIJHL commissioner, significant efforts and investments have been made to elevate the league to the Junior A level, with the goal of providing players with a clear path to compete in Canada’s national Junior A championship, the Centennial Cup. The formation of the BC Hockey Conference (BCHC) in 2022, which includes the KIJHL and PJHL, further demonstrates their commitment to improving the level of junior hockey in the province and providing better opportunities for players. Initiatives such as the creation of a Department of Player Safety and the establishment of a Top Prospects Game have already resulted in three recent participants signing in the Western Hockey League.
The decision of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League to break away from Hockey Canada was made after a board vote by the 11 member teams, with the aim of enhancing development opportunities for players and gaining more control over the league’s future. While this move represents a significant change, it is disappointing to Cameron Hope, BC Hockey CEO, who has emphasized the ongoing commitment of the KIJHL and PJHL to prioritize the safety, development, and playing experience of B.C. and Yukon players.
The BCHC is actively working to develop an application and assessment process for KIJHL and PJHL teams to transition to full-fledged Junior A status. The league is also collaborating with Blackfin Sports Group to further their efforts, and they are expected to announce their next steps in early 2025.
The dedication of the KIJHL and PJHL to Hockey Canada and the BC Hockey umbrella underscores their unwavering commitment to the safety and development of players in the region. With the evolving landscape of junior hockey in British Columbia, it will be interesting to see how these changes will impact the future of the sport in the province.