The U15 AAA Brandon Wheat Kings captured the Manitoba Female Hockey League title Saturday in Carman, defeating the Pembina Valley Hawks 4-3 to sweep the best of 3 series. Danica Averill had a strong showing between the pipes for Brandon Saturday registering 59 saves. Katie Bell, Emily Beckwith, Avery Frattinger, and Lila Oldcorn scored for Brandon while league playoff scoring leader Sydney Sass chipped in with 2 assists. With her 2 points Saturday, Sass finished with a remarkable 17 points in only 6 playoff games. Prior to defeating Pembina Valley in the league final, the Wheat Kings also swept playoff series against Parkland and Norman. In their 6 playoff games, they outscored their opponents 29-7. The team roster can be viewed here.

The City of Brandon notified the public on March 3, 2023 that the ice arena in Brandon’s Community Sportsplex had to be temporarily closed due to deficiencies within the ice plant that pose a safety risk to the public and facility staff. Since then, an assessment of the arena has taken place. Analysis of the concerns and a plan to reopen the ice arena is underway. Once issues are resolved, a reopening date will be communicated with the public. In the meantime, Parks & Recreation Services will be opening the space up to alternate programming such as roller skating and ball hockey. More information on these temporary programs can be found on brandon.ca or on the City of Brandon Parks & Recreation Facebook and Instagram accounts. For a full schedule of spring programming available through Parks & Recreation Services, please visit brandon.ca/programs/recreation-programs. The City of Brandon thanks all patrons of the Sportsplex ice arena for their patience and understanding during this temporary closure.

For over 30 years the Wendy's Summer Hockey League has been a source for off season training for NHL - AHL - Euro - WHL - and NCAA players plus as well fun for recreational players that still want to keep in shape. WSHL or known to some as just WS will start up at J and G Homes Arena on June 15th. The league is open to top end pro players to average joes that still love the game.   Four separate divisions of talent and calibre and the youngest players accepted are 15 years old. No weekend or long weekend games as well makes this attraction for players during summer months. To Register or more info https://www.aaahockey.com/wshlregistration Darryl Wolski - 204 573 8080 or dwolski@2112hockeyagency.com

(Province of MB News Release) The Manitoba government is proud to have supported the Winnipeg Football Club’s winning bid to host the 2025 Grey Cup Festival, Premier Heather Stefanson and Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Obby Khan announced today. “Home of the Canadian Football League’s loudest and most passionate fans, our government is thrilled to welcome the CFL and football fans from across the country in 2025 when Winnipeg will play host to the 112th Grey Cup,” said Stefanson. “Winnipeg has previously hosted four Grey Cups and continues to build on its reputation as an accomplished host supported by remarkable volunteers, homegrown hospitality, and thriving community spirit.” Last October, the Manitoba government announced support up to $5.5 million to help strengthen the Winnipeg Football Club’s efforts to secure hosting rights for the classic annual event. “I know firsthand that Winnipeg has the best fans in the CFL, and with three consecutive Grey Cup appearances, it is a no-brainer for the Blue Bombers to host the 2025 game and related festivities,” said Khan. “I’ve had the good fortune to experience three Grey Cups as a player, and know the week leading up to the game is filled with exciting events bringing fans of all ages from all over Canada to celebrate their love for the game and experience all that Winnipeg and Manitoba has to offer.” Hosting of the Grey Cup game and related festivities is estimated to result in a more than $90-million boost in economic activities including $8.2 million in provincial tax revenues, the premier added. To learn more about the 2025 Grey Cup, visit: https://www.cfl.ca/2023/03/14/112th-grey-cup-in-2025-awarded-to-winnipeg/.

Former Wheat Kings goalie Jiri Patera was able to get his NHL debut tonight with the Vegas Golden Knights. Due to some injuries the Golden Knights made the call to their AHL club the Henderson Silver Knights to bring Jiri on their road trip. Patera was not available for comment.