Cochrane Generals fans got their first taste of the Heritage Junior Hockey League’s (HJHL) new partnership with FloSports during the team’s Sept. 7 exhibition game against the Mountainview Colts.
The launch of a redesigned website has been accompanied by a new partnership with FloSports, a platform for live and on-demand hockey streaming of games across the HJHL. It marks a major step forward for the junior B circuit, providing families, scouts, and fans with unprecedented access to the action.
“This is the same platform used in junior A, the AHL and women’s leagues around the world,” said Gens president Rick Richards. “It allows grandparents in Nova Scotia to watch their grandson play here in Alberta, and gives scouts anywhere the chance to find players they’re looking for.”
FloSports, a subscription-based platform covering more than 25 sports, offers high-definition live streams, replays, team profiles, scores and a user-friendly mobile app. Fans can sign up at FloHockey.com for access to all HJHL games, with replays available for those who can’t tune in live.
Lionel Seaward, who has been tapped as the Generals’ new play-by-play commentator, completed his first broadcast during the Sept. 7 exhibition. A graduate of SAIT’s radio broadcasting and journalism programs, he says he’s relishing the chance.
“There were nerves at the start, but one of my instructors always said if you’re nervous, it means you care,” he said. "So I kind of keep that in my back pocket and just have fun, right? Feel the energy and give that energy to some of the people that can't be here today."
“For me, it’s a dream come true. I love it.”
The Generals are among six HJHL teams that have dedicated play-by-play crews and camera operators for the season, with more expected to follow. Each club is responsible for streaming its own home games.
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Beyond bringing fans closer to the action, the system also has benefits behind the scenes. Coaches can download game footage and break down individual shifts for player development.
Richards, who knew Seward through the Gens’ affiliation with Calgary sledge hockey, said he was a natural fit for the role.
“When his name came up, the board said there was no one else to ask,” Richards said, citing Seward’s background in sledge hockey and broadcasting. “We’re thrilled to have him on board.”
For the Generals, the partnership represents more than a technical upgrade — it’s a way to share their brand of hockey with a much wider audience.
“It’s really a step forward for the league,” Richards said. “Fans, families and players are all going to benefit.”
