The BCHL and the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) have announced a partnership extension under an enhanced management agreement, beginning with the 2027-28 season.
Under the new agreement, the BCHL office will oversee operations of the VIJHL at the direction of the VIJHL Board of Governors and Executive Committee.
“After two successful seasons working together, we are pleased to announce this extension with the VIJHL,” said BCHL Commissioner Steven Cocker. “This new agreement acts as another step forward for an already growing athlete-first independent development system. We are excited for what’s to come with the VIJHL, while also continuing to explore ways to grow and improve the independent system in Western Canada and beyond.”
The BCHL and the VIJHL first began their current three-year partnership after the VIJHL became an independent league to start the 2024-25 season. Since then, VIJHL players have had the ability to affiliate with BCHL teams, and the league has acted as a development system for BCHL prospects.
Similarly, the BCHL will also work with the Western International Junior Hockey League (WIJHL) as they begin their first season as an independent league in the fall.
“We are thrilled to bring dedicated and like-minded groups together, like the VIJHL and WIJHL, and continue growing a foundation that has already shown incredible potential,” added Cocker.
“The VIJHL is extremely excited to be taking these steps forward in our partnership and management agreement with the BCHL,” said VIJHL Board Chair Shawn Vincent. “The past two seasons have been a period of exponential growth for the league and its owners and we are grateful for the BCHL’s commitment to the growth and development of junior hockey.”
“We look forward to future opportunities and successes as our brand of hockey expands.”
