The BCHL held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) May 28 and 29 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, B.C. where a number of topics were discussed regarding the future of the league.
League Office Staffing
Governors approved the creation of two new league office staff positions.
Over the summer, the BCHL will hire a Chief Commercial Officer, responsible for driving the league’s long-term commercial growth and external relationships as the league continues to follow its growth plan.
In addition, the league will be hiring a Deputy Commissioner, responsible for supporting the Commissioner with league operations, as well as overseeing the BCHL’s rapidly growing development system.
League Growth
The Board of Governors continued to discuss the BCHL Growth Plan, which was passed at the most recent October board meeting.
Governors identified Alberta expansion as a priority, as well as strategic growth within British Columbia and cross-border expansion. This growth will focus on communities, facilities and ownership groups that meet the standards set by the BCHL.
Roster Regulations
The Board voted in favour of reducing the roster maximum to 23 players, plus the option of an additional roster spot for a third goalie. Previously, the maximum was 25 players with an extra spot for a third goalie.
Governors approved this change with the goal of providing increased opportunities to players from alliance leagues to be called up when needed, while ensuring BCHL athletes are actively participating and developing.
Year-End Awards
On Day 1 of the AGM, Cranbrook Bucks Owner and President Nathan Lieuwen was recognized as the 2025-26 Executive of the Year, as voted by his peers.
“Nathan has worked tirelessly behind the scenes over the last number of years as the Vice Chair of the league’s Executive Committee,” said Rich Murphy, Chairman of the Board of Governors. “He brings enthusiasm and fresh ideas to the league day in and day out and is a very deserving recipient of this award.”
The following day, Trail Smoke Eaters Director of Marketing Allison McCarthy was recognized as the 2025-26 Marketer of the Year. McCarthy previously won the award following the 2021-22 season.
“Allison has been an excellent marketer year after year in the BCHL,” said Barry Douglas, Chair of the BCHL’s Marketing Committee and Governor and Vice President of Business Operations for the Chilliwack Chiefs. “She continues to lead the Smoke Eaters with her creative and innovative approach.”
Guest Speakers
The BCHL would like to thank Riche Leveille, Director of Partnership Strategies with the Vancouver Canucks, who gave a presentation to the Board on Day 2, focused on the evolving partnership landscape and community impacts.
The league would also like to thank Rocky Olfert, Managing Director of Canada West, and Rob Godfrey, Associate Athletic Director at Mount Royal University, who also presented to the Board, focused on college hockey opportunities for BCHL athletes and synergies between the organizations.
