Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Alberta continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier destination for major sporting by welcoming the nation’s top U18 women’s hockey talent for the prestigious 2025 Esso Cup. From April 20 to 26, hundreds of athletes, coaches, officials and fans will flock to Lloydminster for the championships, highlighting the city and its vibrant hockey culture.
The week-long tournament is projected to inject more than $350,000 into the local economy as visitors increase activity at local businesses and drive accommodation bookings, and will draw more than 120,000 additional viewers through nationwide broadcasts. Alberta’s government has provided $32,500 through the Major Sport Event Grant for the planning, staging and delivery of the competition.
“Alberta’s government is proud to support the Esso Cup’s return to our province. Hockey runs deep in Alberta, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have the nation’s best U18 women’s hockey players compete here. Hosting this tournament is about more than hockey – it’s about showing little girls across the province that there’s a space for them in elite sport and inspiring them to chase their dreams.”
“The 2025 Esso Cup is a tremendous opportunity for our community and province. Lloydminster is proud to host such a prestigious event, bringing together the best young hockey players in Canada. This tournament highlights our strong hockey culture and reinforces Alberta’s commitment to sports and youth development.”
Regarded as a key milestone for players on their path to the next level, many Esso Cup alumnae have gone on to play post-secondary hockey both in Canada and the United States. Some past players have even gone on to represent Canada, wearing the Maple Leaf with the National Women’s Team.
“Lloydminster is excited and proud to host the 2025 Esso Cup! We are welcoming five elite teams from across Canada alongside our hometown U18 AAA PWM Steelers. From April 20 to 26, our community will celebrate an exciting time for female hockey – showcasing top talent, inspiring young athletes and helping shape the bright future of women’s hockey in Canada.”
The 2025 Esso Cup will feature six teams, including two Alberta teams: the hosting Lloydminster Steelers and the Edmonton Junior Oilers. This year’s championship marks the fifth time Alberta has hosted the tournament since its inception in 2009, with Lloydminster joining previous host cities Calgary (2009), St. Albert (2011), Red Deer (2015) and Okotoks (2022).
Related information
- 2025 Esso Cup
- Major Sport Event Grant Program
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