The stage is set for another thrilling edition of the world-renowned Circle K Classic, as Calgary prepares to host the prestigious under-18 AAA hockey tournament. The six-day holiday event kicks off Saturday, with local teams hungry to end a five-year streak of co-hosts failing to lift the coveted championship cup on New Year's Day.
Local Contenders Load Up for Championship Run
Four Calgary-based teams enter the tournament with high hopes of bringing the title back to the host city. The Calgary UPP Flames are considered the front-runners among the local contingent, boasting an impressive 17-2-0-1-2 record heading into the tournament. They aim to add a third Circle K trophy to their collection.
The Calgary Cannex Buffaloes (13-7-0-1-1) are perennial contenders and hold the distinction of being the last city team to win it all, capturing their fourth championship back in 2019 with a 6-2 victory over the Moose Jaw Warriors.
Meanwhile, the Calgary Royals (11-0-1-1) and the Calgary Northstars (13-5-0-1-1 in AEHL play) are poised to make deep runs. Northstars head coach Marcus Cheng expressed optimism about the local clubs' chances. "Our (Alberta) league is a tight one again this year, but I think we got some good Calgary teams this year that can make some noise," said Cheng. "So hopefully, all four of us have a good showing."
Northstars Captain Confident in Team's Potential
The Northstars, who have won the Circle K Classic once before, are entering with a confident mindset. Captain Christopher Wright left no doubt about the team's objective. "Our expectations would be to win it," stated Wright.
Coach Cheng echoed that sentiment, highlighting the talent on his roster. "I'd say expectations are high for this group," added Cheng. "We've got a lot of WHL talent on our team, so we want to make sure we have a good showing and put our best foot forward."
Day One Showcases Top Talent and International Flair
The tournament's opening day promises exciting matchups featuring elite prospects and international teams. Action will take place at the Max Bell Centre and the 7 Chiefs Sportsplex.
The day's schedule includes a marquee morning game featuring Maddox Schultz—the first overall pick in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft—and his high-powered Pat Canadians squad taking on Shawnigan Lake School.
An intriguing matinee pits the contending Northern Alberta Xtreme against Team Maryland, which is making its first-ever appearance at the Circle K Classic.
The late afternoon slate offers another international clash, as debutantes Lake Forest Academy from Illinois face off against the always-competitive Vancouver NE Chiefs.
As the puck drops on Saturday, the quest begins to see who will etch their name onto the Circle K Classic Cup and become the 2026 champion, with Calgary's best determined to ensure the celebration happens close to home.
