The Western International Junior Hockey League (WIJHL) is proud to announce an affiliation agreement for the 2026/2027 Season with Airdrie’s Stars Hockey Academy.
This partnership will allow the WIJHL and its member teams to work collaboratively with Stars Hockey staff and players to support player development and create meaningful opportunities for athletes to be introduced to and experience the junior hockey environment.
Through this relationship, Stars Hockey players will have the opportunity to participate with WIJHL programs, gaining valuable exposure to the pace, structure, and expectations of junior hockey. Players will benefit from additional ice time, high-level competition, mentorship from junior hockey coaches and players, and an opportunity to further develop their skills in a competitive and supportive environment.
Ultimately, the goal of this partnership is to create a strong development pathway for aspiring junior hockey players while providing Stars Hockey athletes with opportunities to grow, compete, and take the next step in their hockey careers.
“We are excited about working with Stars Hockey this coming season. Their hockey operations staff are committed to advancing players through the independent hockey pipeline from young ages up and through junior prep, and having the opportunity to connect with our junior level coaching staffs will be mutually beneficial for both the Stars HC and the WIJHL.” – Brandon Buliziuk, Chairman of the Western International Junior Hockey League.
” We are excited to announce this new partnership with the WIJHL, establishing a player development pathway for athletes within our private hockey programming. This partnership creates a clear progression from elite youth development to junior hockey, providing our players with expanded opportunities to develop, compete, and advance to the next level.” – Jonah Cimolini, Director, Stars Hockey Academy.
About the Western International Junior Hockey League
The Western International Junior Hockey League (WIJHL) is dedicated to providing a competitive, development-focused junior hockey experience that prepares student-athletes for advancement in hockey, education, and life. Through strong community partnerships and a commitment to excellence, the WIJHL continues to grow opportunities for players throughout Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest.
