The wins keep rolling in for emerging hockey talent and the Cochrane Minor Hockey Association (CMHA).
Cochrane Minor Hockey has been granted U15 AAA and U17 AAA teams in the latest expansion of the Alberta Elite Hockey League (AEHL), beginning in the 2026–27 season.
"This expansion reflects the increasing demand for elite-level programming across Alberta," states Hockey Alberta on its website. "We're committed to delivering a structured, competitive environment for athlete development."
CMHA president Cory Oates says the news marks a significant step forward for elite hockey in the region and is the result of years of hard work and dedication by the association's team.
“Cochrane Minor Hockey Association is proud to be recognized by Hockey Alberta with the addition of U15 AAA and U17 AAA programs, starting in the 2026–27 season,” says Oates. “This builds on the foundation of our existing U13 AAA program and marks another exciting step forward for elite hockey in Cochrane and the surrounding area.”
“The expansion provides a clear and continued development pathway for our athletes striving to compete at the highest level,” he continues. “We will be working diligently and are committed to having U18 AAA in place as soon as possible.”
The announcement is especially meaningful to the organization following the loss of the U17 AAA Airdrie/Cochrane Avalanche program at the end of the 2022–23 season, which relocated to Airdrie.
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Like the recently approved U13 AAA team currently selecting players for the 2025–26 season, these teams will follow the Bow Valley Timberwolves branding.
"This was a deliberate and meaningful choice, as it reflects our entire draw zone and ensures that everyone in our community feels represented and included in this exciting new chapter," the association said.
The Alberta Elite Hockey League (AEHL) was launched in the 2020–21 season to unify Alberta’s top-tier hockey under one banner.
“This expansion is more than just the addition of teams; it’s a testament to the strength of Alberta’s hockey communities and a bold step forward for the next generation of elite athletes,” Hockey Alberta said in a statement.
CMHA president Ryan Oaten extended sincere thanks to Hockey Alberta and the AEHL committee for their time, commitment and recognition of Cochrane and area.
“We are honoured to be awarded this new elite franchise and are excited for what the future holds,” he said.
The major win comes just months after a long-pursued U13 AA female franchise was awarded to CMHA in late February.