WHL Cup 2024: Roster Announcement and Tournament Details

The Western Hockey League (WHL), in collaboration with BC Hockey, Hockey Alberta, Hockey Saskatchewan, and Hockey Manitoba, has unveiled the official rosters for the 2024 WHL Cup. Set to be held from October 23 to October 27, the tournament will take place at the Peavey Mart Centrium, the home venue for the WHL’s Red Deer Rebels.

The WHL Cup, inaugurated in 2009, is an annual event unless it coincides with the Canada Winter Games. This tournament marks the first phase in Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence. This year, it will spotlight the top players born in 2009 from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

Team Alberta aims to return to the podium, led by Aden Bouchard and forward Ben Harvey. Team B.C., victorious in 2021, features players like Brock Cripps and Jacob Schwartz. Defending champions, Team Manitoba, includes forward Tyden Lafournaise and defensive prospect Graeme Pickering. Meanwhile, Team Saskatchewan, with forward Kayden Stroeder and defenceman Calder Hamilton, looks to reclaim the title first achieved in 2019.

The WHL Cup has a rich history, having hosted several now-prominent NHL players. This year’s event will follow a round-robin format, culminating in playoffs, to determine the champion among the Western Canadian provinces. Tickets are available for purchase at the venue, priced at $45 for a tournament pass and $10 for a day pass.

For Cochrane, Alberta, this year’s WHL Cup is notable as local talents Leif Oaten, Jensen Marsh, and Matthew Hilderman will represent Alberta. All were selected in the WHL Prospects Draft held earlier this year. These players join a roster that includes picks from Calgary, Edmonton, and other regions, aiming to showcase their skills on a high-profile stage.