Hockey Manitoba is pleased to announce the start of the 2009-2010 Minor Hockey Provincial Championships beginning today and scheduled at over 33 different locations throughout the Province. In addition to this opening weekend, championships are also scheduled for the weekends of March 5-7,March 12-14 and March 19-21. The tournaments consist of Atom, Pee Wee, Bantam and Midget age divisions in both male and female hockey.

Hockey Manitoba is pleased to welcome back Cargill Ltd. as the official presenting sponsor of the Minor Provincial Championships and looks forward to continuing a positive relationship with an organization of its profile who is proud to support the spirit and excitement that hockey brings to the communities in which we work and live.

With over 5,000 direct participants from across the province that include players, officials and coaches this represents the single largest event on the hockey calendar.In addition, numerous rural centers will benefit from the tremendous support injected by local media, parents and community involvement to ensure a positive and memorable experience for all participants.

Brian Franklin, President of Hockey Manitoba expressed his enthusiasm on the eve of the start of the first Provincial weekend. Brian exclaimed,

“This is always an extremely exciting time of year and certainly one of the highlights of the hockey season. This is an opportunity for players, coaches, officials and fans to establish great memories and celebrate some of the best hockey within Manitoba.Thank you to all host communities, volunteers and minor hockey associations and best of luck to all participants.”

Len Penner, President of Cargill Ltdshared this enthusiasm and confirmed Cargill’s commitment to the local community.“For over 80 years,Cargill has been sensitive to providing support ineducation andnourishment towardsgrowth for our youth. Importantly we stand behindyoung individuals as they strive for success and life learning experiences. As such, weare pleasedto be associated with Hockey Manitoba and look forward to this year’s provincial championships."

For complete details regarding scores, draws, locations and contact information please visit the Hockey Manitoba website at www.hockeymanitoba.mb.ca

For more information on the Hockey Manitoba Provincial Championships please contact the Hockey Manitoba office at info@hockeymanitoba.mb.ca or (204) 925-5756.