The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) is underway for the 2025–26 season, and commissioner Kyle McIntyre says the early energy across the league has been “outstanding” as he begins his fourth year in the role.
Opening weekend drew more than 1,000 fans per game on average, with nearly 500 viewers per broadcast on FloHockey. “Anytime you can have that kind of support and passion, it’s exciting for a commissioner and for our league,” McIntyre said.
A major highlight came in Warman, where more than 1,300 fans packed the rink for the Wolverines’ first-ever home game.
“It was electric,” McIntyre said. “The only thing missing was a home goal, which came the next night.”
McIntyre says his appreciation for the SJHL grows each season, noting the deep bond between teams and their towns. He pointed to the resurgence of the Melville Millionaires as an example of how a franchise can rally its community. “Their attendance is soaring, they’re back in the black financially, and they’re playing to win every night.”
The commissioner highlighted the league’s role in the Western Canada Development Model (WCDM), which emphasizes Western-based rosters and pathways to higher levels. “The more kids you have from the West—and especially from Saskatchewan—the more character your team will have,” McIntyre said, adding that recent rule changes promoting offense have benefitted both players and fans.
Upcoming league showcases include the Western All-Star Showcase in Warman (Nov. 3–5) for U18 players and December’s Viking Cup in Camrose, featuring 19- and 20-year-olds against university and international teams.
McIntyre says he’ll measure this season’s success by strong attendance, community engagement, and competitive races down to the wire. “I want to see all 12 teams fighting for a playoff spot in the final week. That’s what makes our league so exciting.”
The SJHL also continues to develop officials, with four referees tied to the league set to work at the upcoming Winter Olympics.
“That’s a source of pride not only for Hockey Saskatchewan, but for our league as well,” McIntyre said. “We develop players, coaches, officials, and even broadcasters—that’s what the SJHL is all about.”
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