(Image Credit: Supplied)

By LNN Staff

First Time Since 2013

Coaldale to host 2026 Hockey Alberta U18C Provincial Championships

Mar 24, 2026 | 11:15 AM

The town of Coaldale will welcome teams and fans from across Alberta as the Coaldale Cobras host the 2026 Hockey Alberta U18C Provincial Championships, taking place March 26 to 29, 2026, at the Coaldale Sportsplex.

Officials note, it’s the first time since 2013 that Coaldale will host a Hockey Alberta Provincial Championship, bringing eight elite U18C teams to town to compete for the provincial banner and division bragging rights.

The weekend is expected to draw approximately 150 players, along with coaches, parents, extended families, Hockey Alberta representatives, and hockey fans from across the province.

Organizers anticipate the tournament will create an exciting atmosphere in Coaldale while also providing a boost to local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations.

“We are incredibly honored to host the 2026 Hockey Alberta U18C Provincial Championships,” said Chenairy Stalwick, Media/Marketing Chairperson. “For many of these athletes, this tournament is more than just a competition, it is the culmination of a lifelong journey and the finale of their minor hockey careers.”

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“This is an outstanding opportunity for Coaldale,” exclaimed Mayor Jack Van Rijn. “Council is truly excited and proud to see this event coming to our community. The organizing committee and volunteers have done an incredible job preparing for this moment, and we look forward to welcoming teams from across Alberta.”

Adding to the excitement, the host team, the U18 Coaldale Cobras, enter Provincials with significant momentum. The Cobras captured the CAHL U18 Tier 3 Red banner on March 8 with a perfect 5–0 record, and followed that performance by securing their CAHL Division banner the weekend of March 15 with three consecutive wins.

Officials say these achievements earn them a strong position heading into Provincials and reflect the team’s hard work and dedication throughout the season.

In the lead-up to Provincials, the Cobras celebrated their graduating athletes during Senior Night on Feb. 15, recognizing 14 players who have spent their entire minor hockey careers playing in Coaldale.

Event Highlights for the Weekend:

• Opening Ceremonies will take place on Friday, March 27, followed by a home game beginning at 1:00 p.m.

• Player Banquet featuring guest speaker Mariko Boulet-Couture

• Hockey Day in Coaldale on Saturday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., featuring food trucks, a market hosted by the Domesticated Divas, Hockey Hive interactive games, and a gaming trailer. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

• Championship games on Sunday, March 29

The event will also include several meaningful community initiatives:

• Food Bank Challenge supporting local residents

• Free admission throughout the tournament

• Online 50/50 raffle supporting local organizations, including Coaldale & District Fire Services and Rehoboth Residents are encouraged to follow tournament updates at: @u18cobras_26 and 2026.u18c.provincials