The Alberta Female Hockey League is excited to announce several significant growth and expansion plans.
Over the past year, the AFHL has been reviewing the structure of elite female hockey in Alberta, to ensure alignment and progression within the entire hockey system. As a result, the following will occur starting in the 2023-2024 season:
1. Addition of a U13 AA division, to provide a competitive all-female option and development pathway for female athletes through the elite system.
2. Expansion of the number of teams within the U15 AA division, due to increased numbers of female players graduating through the system.
Within the new U13 AA division, the intent is to operate teams within three or four regionally-based divisions under the AFHL banner. Draw Zones will be developed to help support existing U15 AA draw zones. Tournament-style playoffs would lead to a provincial championship tournament.
Within the U15 AA division, new teams will be added to the league as part of a review of the existing Draw Zones based on current registration numbers.
All teams in the U13 AA division, and expansion teams in the U15 AA division, will be selected as part of a bid process where interested Hockey Alberta Member organizations can submit franchise hosting applications. Bid applications will be accepted starting November 15, with a December 15 deadline. The application package will be available on the Hockey Alberta and AFHL websites.
February 1 is the target date for finalizing U13 and U15 division changes for the 2023-24 season.
Additionally, during the 2022-2023 season, the Elite Female Committee will review the structure and alignment at U18 AAA for changes and potential expansion in the 2024-25 season.
