In a recent development, the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) declared its intention to become an independent league starting from the 2024-25 season. This move signifies a departure from their previous affiliations with Hockey Canada and BC Hockey. The VIJHL follows the footsteps of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), which parted ways with Hockey Canada in 2023.– The KIJHL really needs to do the same. Along with all the Junior A Leagues in Canada.
The President of the VIJHL, expressed his enthusiasm for the league’s new direction. “The VIJHL is proud to announce our transition to an independent league starting next season, operating outside of Hockey Canada’s umbrella,” he said. “After months of diligent work by the ownership group of our 11 franchises, moving the VIJHL into a new space in junior hockey will provide players with more opportunities for development.”
The league’s news release further elaborated on the benefits of this independence, which includes affiliation agreements with higher levels of hockey, the ability to make decisions that are in the best interest of the league, and an increased player pool.
The League also took the opportunity to express gratitude towards their former league partners. “We would like to thank our former league partners in the Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) and the Kootenay Interior Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) for their years of partnership and wish them nothing but the best going forward,” he added.
This move marks a significant change for the VIJHL as it embarks on a new chapter in its history, focusing on player development and expanding its opportunities within the junior hockey landscape.