SAHA named host of inaugural CSSHL U18 National Championship for 2027

The academy, which joined the CSSHL in the 2020-21 season, won the inaugural East-West Challenge during the 2025-26 season and has produced several NHL draft picks and professional players.

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READ: South Alberta Hockey Academy win inaugural CSSHL East-West Challenge in Quebec (Feb. 9, 2026)

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CSSHL commissioner Mel Davidson said that SAHA and the host community stood out during the selection process.

“SAHA and the host community exceeded our criteria and will be an excellent partner,” Davidson said in a statement.

“They will deliver a memorable experience for all our participating student-athletes, coaches, staff and visiting family members and friends.”

SAHA general manager Darren MacMillan called the opportunity an important milestone for both the academy and Prairie Rose Public Schools.

“Being selected to host the inaugural CSSHL U18 Men’s National Championship is an incredible honour for the South Alberta Hockey Academy, Prairie Rose Public Schools, and our entire Southeast Alberta community,” McMillian said in a statement.

“Far beyond championship hockey, this event celebrates the power of education-based athletics and the opportunities that exist when schools, sport, and community work together,” he added.

“Hosting the nation’s top U18 teams provides an opportunity to showcase not only our outstanding facilities and hospitality, but also the educational model that allows young athletes to excel both in the classroom and on the ice. We are excited to welcome teams and families from across Canada to Southeast Alberta and look forward to creating an unforgettable national championship experience.”

A local organizing committee, chaired by Brent Sauer, will work alongside SAHA and the CSSHL to stage the tournament.

Sauer said hosting the event is a tremendous honour and a testament to the community’s reputation for delivering exceptional sporting events.

“We look forward to welcoming the country’s top young hockey talent and their families while showcasing everything our region has to offer,” Sauer said in a statement.

“This tournament is about more than championship hockey; it’s about creating lasting memories, building community, and celebrating the next generation of athletes,” he added.

“We are excited to work alongside our volunteers, partners, and sponsors to deliver an outstanding national championship experience.”

The City of Medicine Hat will also be involved as the host city.

Parks and Recreation director Scott Richter said in a statement that hosting this event provides an incredible opportunity to showcase our outstanding recreation facilities and community hospitality.

In previous years, the CSSHL league champions were split, with Eastern and Western winners, and the new event will determine an overall national champion for the first time.

League officials say additional details, including the tournament format, will be released ahead of the 2026-27 season.

by Jesse Gill

SAHA named host of inaugural CSSHL U18 National Championship for 2027

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