The 2025 Western All-Star Challenge wrapped up last week in Martensville, showcasing some of the top U19 players from the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) and Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL).
Held November 3–5 at the Martensville Recreation Centre, the competition featured fast-paced, physical hockey as players vied for a coveted spot on Team Canada West ahead of the World Junior ‘A’ Challenge taking place in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, this December. Scouts, fans, and local students packed the stands to take in the action.
Game 1, played Tuesday evening, saw Team SJHL skate to a 3–2 victory. Pryce Thiessen (Kindersley Klippers) led the way with two goals, while Cash Olson (Estevan Bruins) added another. Goaltenders Taye Timmerman (Warman Wolverines) and Kason Kobelka (Melfort Mustangs) combined for 37 saves to secure the win.
On Wednesday morning, Team MJHL battled back to earn a 5–4 comeback victory, splitting the series. Cole Hunter (Waywayseecapo Wolverines) scored twice, while Lincoln Black-Greaves (Virden Oil Capitals), Bryce Bryant (Virden Oil Capitals), and Rory Gilmour (Steinbach Pistons, University of Maine commit) each added goals, with Gilmour netting the game-winner.
For the SJHL, Thomas Ries (Yorkton Terriers) recorded a goal and an assist, tying for the event’s scoring lead with Bryant. Connor Miller (Humboldt Broncos), Cash Olson (Estevan Bruins), and Wyatt Stinton (Flin Flon Bombers) also contributed goals over the two games.
The Western All-Star Challenge served as a highly competitive pre-selection camp for Team Canada West, featuring 40 of the top 19U prospects with 20 from each league. In addition to the on-ice games, players took part in skill sessions and evaluations in front of Team Canada West staff and scouts representing NCAA programs, Major Junior clubs, U Sports teams, and even NHL organizations.
The event provided valuable exposure for the players, who were evaluated by Head Coach Trevor Blevins (Melfort Mustangs) and General Manager Mike McAuly (Niverville Nighthawks). Carter Hansen, Associate Coach of the Humboldt Broncos, will serve as the team’s video coach at the World Junior ‘A’ Challenge next month.
With the Western All-Star Challenge now complete, players have returned to their respective club teams while awaiting final roster decisions for the international tournament in December.
