WINNIPEG, MB – Hockey Manitoba is pleased to announce the start of the 2015 Hockey Manitoba Provincials presented by Cargill Ltd. beginning this weekend at 14 different host locations.  Over the next three weeks a total of 28 different locations throughout the province will host provincial championship tournaments.  In addition to this opening weekend, March 6-8, championships are also scheduled for the weekends of March 13-15, March 20-22 and March 27-29. The minor hockey Provincials consist of Atom, Peewee, Bantam and Midget age divisions with various categories in both male and female hockey.

Hockey Manitoba welcomes back Cargill Ltd. as the official presenting sponsor of the Provincials and is excited to continue a positive relationship with an organization of its profile who is proud to support the spirit and excitement that hockey brings to our communities.  With approximately 5,000 participants from across the province including players, officials and coaches, this annual competition represents the largest event on the hockey calendar. Hockey Manitoba is also pleased to contribute to the numerous rural hosts benefiting from the tremendous support and business injected by local media, participants, parents and community involvement to ensure a positive and memorable experience for all.

Bill Whitehead, President of Hockey Manitoba, expresses his enthusiasm for the start of the Provincials. “This is always an extremely exciting time of year, and particularly this season as we celebrate Hockey Manitoba’s 100th Anniversary.  Provincials are a special opportunity for players, coaches, officials and fans to establish great memories and celebrate some of the best hockey within Manitoba. Thank you to our presenting sponsor Cargill Ltd. and to all host communities, volunteers and minor hockey associations. Best of luck to all participants!”

Jeff Vassart, President of Cargill Ltd., shares this enthusiasm and confirmed Cargill’s commitment to the local community. “For over 150 years, Cargill has been sensitive to providing support in education and nourishment towards growth for our youth. Importantly we stand behind young individuals as they strive for success and life learning experiences. As such, we are pleased to be associated with Hockey Manitoba and look forward to this year’s Provincials.”

Hockey Manitoba encourages everyone to post photos and videos from the 2015 Provincials on our social media network (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram).  Use @hockeymanitoba and #HM_Provincials in your posts and you’ll be entered to win four (4) Winnipeg Jets tickets to the March 21st game vs. the Washington Capitals!

Keep up to date with the 2015 Hockey Manitoba Provincials presented by Cargill Ltd. by visiting www.hockeymanitoba.ca/provincials for dates, locations and contacts or www.hockeymanitobastats.ca for all schedules, scores and player stats.  Also follow various provincial league playoffs such as Midget AAA, Junior A, Junior B, Junior C and various Senior categories as more 2015 Provincial champions are crowned.