History of the Yelnats Cup

The tournament first originated in 2000.  “Yelnats” is “Stanley” spelled backwards.

The Yelnats Cup takes place in late March and for many midget players, it means the end of their minor hockey career.

Graduating players are called to the ice after their last game to be recognized and presented with a keepsake of their minor hockey journey.

The tournament has grown from 8 teams to 32 teams in total.  Teams vie for their names to appear on one of the Yelnats Cups, which are on display year round in the Spray Lakes Family Sports Center.  Players vie for top honors in the Showdown Skills Competition, held every Saturday of the tournament. 

Local teams volunteer their time throughout the year to fundraise their entry fees.  Any surplus funds raised during the tournament are donated back to the hockey community.

Fond memories, laughter, friendly competition and a few tears are the foundation of this tournament.