The Saskatchewan Junior Female Hockey League (SJFHL) has officially launched its second season, bringing high-level competition and excitement to rinks across the province. This season, 125 talented players, aged 18 to 22, are competing on six teams, showcasing the growing popularity of female hockey in Saskatchewan.
The SJFHL is a crucial stepping stone for female athletes who wish to continue playing competitive hockey beyond their youth years. Tina Ekert, the league's vice president of awards and partnerships, emphasized the importance of the league in filling a vital gap for female players across Saskatchewan. "This league provides a platform for women to continue playing at a high level, which is something that has been missing for female athletes in this age group," said Ekert.
This past weekend, Kindersley played host to an exciting series of back-to-back games between the Western Prairie Junior Klippers and the Lumsden Toyota Lynx. The home team, Kindersley’s Junior Klippers, came out strong, securing wins in both games, much to the delight of local fans. These victories mark a fantastic start to the season for the Klippers, who are looking to build on their early momentum.
As the league grows, so too does its impact on raising awareness about female hockey in Saskatchewan. Ekert noted that the SJFHL's mission extends beyond just the competition on the ice—it’s about growing the visibility of female hockey and providing a pathway for young women to keep pursuing their passion. "We're working to build awareness and increase the profile of female hockey in the province. It's exciting to see how the league is evolving," she added.
The SJFHL continues to develop and hopes to attract more players and fans in the coming years, serving as a platform for aspiring female hockey players to stay involved in the sport while offering an inspiring example for younger generations. With the energy and talent on display in the early season matchups, it’s clear that the league is poised for a bright future.