(Release courtesy Hockey Canada)
CAMROSE, Alta. – The Junior A World Challenge, an international showcase of some of the best young hockey talent from around the world, will return to Camrose for the first time since 2008 when Encana Arena plays host from Dec. 9-15.
The 2024 Junior A World Challenge represents a partnership between Hockey Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), Hockey Alberta, NHL Central Scouting and the local organizing committee.
“Hosting a prestigious tournament like the Junior A World Challenge fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. We know our community will come together, support the event and create an exciting atmosphere for fans and teams,” said tournament co-chair Boris Rybalka, who coached Canada West when Camrose hosted in 2008, and won gold at the first two editions of the tournament in 2006 and 2007.
“We are grateful to the volunteers, fans, scouts and sponsors for supporting the tournament and are grateful to Hockey Canada for entrusting us to host this event,” added co-chair Ken Duggan.
The Junior A World Challenge has historically had an economic impact of over $3 million to host communities.
“Communities across Alberta have proven to be excellent hosts for multiple Hockey Canada events and we know Camrose will carry on that tradition with the 2024 Junior A World Challenge,” said Dean McIntosh, senior vice-president of revenue, fan experience and community impact with Hockey Canada. “We look forward to welcoming teams and fans in our return to Camrose, and leaving a lasting legacy while also fostering the growth and support of hockey in the region.”
Since the event’s inception in 2006, more than 300 NHL draft picks have played in the tournament, including 45 first-round selections – a list that includes Brock Boeser, Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, Dylan Holloway, Elias Lindholm, David Pastrnak, Jaden Schwartz, Vladimir Tarasenko and Andrei Vasilevski.
The official tournament schedule and ticket information will be announced at a later date.
