St Albert Minor Hockey Association

St. Albert Minor Hockey Association (SAMHA) is a vibrant and inclusive community of approximately 1800 youth players and over 700 volunteers. Established in 1980, SAMHA has grown to become one of the largest minor hockey associations in Western Canada, offering a wide range of programs that cater to the diverse needs and skill levels of our members.

At SAMHA, we believe in fostering a love for the sport of hockey while promoting sportsmanship, respect, and skill development. Our program includes a strong foundation of community hockey, supplemental development opportunities, and participation in the highest level of elite programs through the St. Albert Raiders. We are committed to delivering a full range of hockey programs that enhance participants' abilities at all levels, from introductory to competitive play.

Land Acknowledgement

We respectfully acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 territory, the traditional lands of First Nations and Metis peoples. As treaty people, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, we share the responsibility for stewardship of this beautiful land.

Community Partners

Our organization is grateful for the support of our community partners, who share our commitment to promoting youth hockey and developing well-rounded athletes. Together, we work to create a positive and inclusive environment that values diversity, respect, and sportsmanship.

History

SAMHA was officially formed in 1980, building on the legacy of the St. Albert Kinsmen Club, which sponsored minor hockey in the city as far back as 1964. At that time, games were played outdoors, and registration cost just $3 per player. In response to the growing popularity of hockey in the community, the Kinsmen Club advocated for and funded the construction of the first covered arena in St. Albert, the Ducky Dome.

As the city continued to grow, so did organized hockey. Akinsdale Arena was built in 1983, followed by the Campbell Park twin arenas in 1992. These facilities provided much-needed space for the expanding hockey community and helped to accommodate the growing number of players seeking to hone their skills and compete at various levels.

SAMHA has a long and proud history of developing talented hockey players. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, several players moved on to professional careers, including Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Jarome Iginla. Recognizing the importance of gender equality in sports, SAMHA was also a pioneer in female hockey, forming the first female hockey team in 1994.

Today, SAMHA remains an integral part of the St. Albert community, with over 1800 members. We are committed to continuing our legacy of promoting hockey, skill development, and sportsmanship for generations to come.

Programs Overview

At SAMHA, we offer a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs and interests of our members. From introductory to competitive play, our programs prioritize skill development, sportsmanship, and fun.

*Community Hockey*: Our community hockey program is the backbone of SAMHA, offering players the opportunity to develop their skills and learn the fundamentals of the game in a supportive and inclusive environment.

*Intro to Hockey (U5, U7, U9)*: Our introductory hockey program is designed for young players who are new to the sport. Through age-appropriate activities and games, players learn basic skills and develop a love for the game.

*Community Hockey (U11-U18)*: Our community hockey program offers players the opportunity to continue developing their skills and compete at various levels. Players are placed on teams based on their skill level and age, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

*Female Hockey (U7-U18)*: Our female hockey program is designed to provide girls with the opportunity to play and compete in a supportive and inclusive environment. From introductory to competitive levels, our female hockey program inspires and empowers girls to excel both on and off the ice.

*Competitive Hockey*: Our competitive hockey program offers players the opportunity to compete at the highest levels of minor hockey. The Jr Raiders and St. Albert Raiders (AAA, AA) programs provide challenging and rewarding experiences for athletes who are committed to the sport of hockey.

*Recreation Hockey*: Our recreation hockey program offers players the opportunity to continue playing the sport they love in a fun and relaxed environment. The Jr C Comets program is designed for players who have aged out of community hockey but still want to participate in the sport they love.

*Development Programs*: SAMHA offers several supplemental development opportunities, including power skating, goalie clinics, and high-performance camps. These programs are designed to help players improve their skills and reach their full potential.