The quest to unearth hidden hockey gems has scouts from across North America focusing on the AJHL as another hub for talent.
Last weekend’s seventh annual AJHL Showcase in Spruce Grove, where all 16 teams played regular season games under one roof, is case in point.
There were 140 registered scouts in the stands, and all but one NHL team was represented. Seventy scouts were from NCAA schools, and a handful from the WHL and ACAC and CIS schools — a record for the Alberta Junior Hockey League.
“It’s a big event for us and really gives every athlete in our league exposure,” explained AJHL Commissioner Ryan Bartoshyk. “We’re about providing options and when you play in the AJHL, you can take any route you want.
Every guy has a different path — whether that’s through the NCAA or through the Western Hockey League, our guys have those options.”
The AJHL is continuing to make its mark on the pro ranks.
On a broader scope, the CJHL has 145 alumni on opening rosters in the NHL this season, with the Calgary Flames having the most at 11.
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