The Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP) is gearing up to bring back a popular community fundraiser this spring, as the Martensville Playoff Draft returns on Saturday, April 18th at the North Ridge Community Centre.
The event, which is based around the NHL Playoffs, invites teams of eight to take part in a competitive and social evening, all while supporting future recreation development in the community.
“The Draft is based on the 2026 NHL Playoffs. Teams of 8 enter a table and compete against the other registered teams. It is an elimination draft so once a player is selected other teams cannot select the same player. The winner is determined by points accumulated by the players you have selected in your draft team,” explained Joe Garchinski of the MCRP.
Now entering its 10th year, the event has become a familiar fixture for many local residents, although organizers are looking to rebuild momentum following a cancellation last year.
“We have ran this event for the past 10 years but unfortunately due to lack of registrations during the Easter weekend last year we had to cancel the event. We are trying to rejuvenate the event this year and can accept up to 40 teams of 8 individuals,” said Garchinski.
The evening promises more than just friendly competition, as participants will also be treated to a supper provided by the Sports Page, which is included with their entry fee ($500 for a team of 8). Doors will open at 4:30pm, with the draft beginning at 5:00pm, followed by supper at 6:00pm.
“This is a licensed 18+ event and a great time to support and visit with other members of the community. Knowledge of the teams and players competing for the Stanley Cup is a definite asset but in sports anyone can win depending on the players you select and how long they play and perform in the playoffs,” Garchinski said.
Participants will also be competing for a share of impressive prize payouts, with first-place team will taking home $4,000, followed by $2,000 for second place and $1,000 for third. A mid-place prize of $500 will also be awarded.
While the event is rooted in hockey, organizers emphasize that it remains accessible to a wide audience, offering a social and engaging night out regardless of skill level or experience.
Local businesses and community members are also encouraged to get involved by supporting the event through donations. Businesses interested in contributing can contact Jesse Reis at (306) 370-7202.
“We truly appreciate all the community support we receive,” said Garchinski.
Proceeds from the Playoff Draft will go toward ongoing fundraising efforts tied to the Martensville Recreation Centre (MRC), with a focus on future expansion by adding a second and third ice surface to the facility.
The MCRP continues to host numerous fundraisers throughout the year, with the hockey draft, and the Fall 3 on 3 Hockey Tournament being two of the most popular events.
“It is extremely important that local residents understand that our goal is not complete and there remains a shortage of ice in our community for ice sports and their user groups,” Garchinski added.
The MCRP has been working hard on fundraising since 2014, and although the MRC is a much-needed addition to the community, the group is determined not to stop as they continue towards their long-term goal, though timelines are still uncertain.
“It is our understanding that a second ice surface is likely 5-10 years away and is dependent on support from the provincial and federal governments,” said Garchinski.
For Garchinski, being part of the project continues to be a meaningful experience more than a decade after its inception. “I have been with the MCRP since its inception in 2014. I am absolutely overwhelmed every time I step into the new MRC and see all our youth enjoying the sports they love. It has opened so many more opportunities for the youth in Martensville and surrounding communities than anyone on the MCRP could have ever imagined. It really is a dream come true.”
Teams interested in participating in the Martensville Playoff Draft can register online at www.mvillecrp.ca.
