The BCHL Showcase has become a key event in the hockey calendar, but it’s more than just an elite hockey tournament, it’s an opportunity to create connections between community and sport.

Canucks Sports and Entertainment (CSE) co-hosted the BCHL Showcase for the first time at the Abbotsford Centre alongside the BCHL’s Chilliwack Chiefs at the Chilliwack Coliseum.

Through events like this, CSE continues its mission to support the development of hockey at all levels, further solidifying its commitment to growing the game throughout British Columbia. It was an opportunity to engage with the community and bring the experience of a Vancouver Canucks game at Rogers Arena to Abbotsford Centre.

CSE Director, Dave Whitworth worked on bringing the Showcase to life at the Abbotsford Centre and the former NCAA Division I player and Penticton Panthers centre says these kinds of initiatives are important for players and fans alike.

“The Canucks have made a concerted effort and priority to grow the game,” Whitworth said. “From sledge hockey to ball hockey to ice hockey and roller hockey, the Canucks want to be there to support the growth of the game, and this is an example of that.”

Over the five-day event, all 21 BCHL teams played in front of approximately 200 NHL and NCAA scouts and fans got the chance to see the up-and-comers of high-performance hockey.

Four marquee games throughout the showcase included entertainment you would find at a Canucks game – Party on the Plaza with FIN, Kirk McLean, Darcy Rota, Jyrki Lumme and Dave Babych who also helped with the ceremonial puck drop. The Canucks hosted children at the game through Every Kid’s Dream. Matsqui First Nation was represented by Ronald Modeste, who performed the welcome song, and Chief Alice McKay. Chris Silver represented Sumas First Nation for the ceremonial welcomes ahead of the marquee games.

Canucks’ legendary PA announcer Al Murdoch was on the mic and there was plenty of fun to keep fans entertained during intermissions, which included the Canucks mini minor program.

Whitworth has had positive feedback from the community and the BCHL, taking care of all the details of the tournament from the pre-game activations to the notable Canucks alumni that attended.

“I think it’s been a great success; it’s been well-received. I’m proud of the organization, as I think our contribution has been well-received by the BCHL and scouts,” said Whitworth.

The success of the Showcase is important to CSE as it supports the development of elite hockey and passionate hockey fans around the province.