Albertans will have the chance to support junior hockey in their communities with a new 50/50 draw that will help local teams maintain operations impacted by COVID-19. 

Jackpots For Junior Hockey presented by RE/MAX, a joint 50/50 draw launched today by the Western Hockey League (WHL) and Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), will share proceeds with Alberta’s five WHL teams and 15 AJHL teams to help offset revenues lost because of the pandemic and the suspension of play. 

Alberta’s government, through Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), is supporting the lottery by allowing the leagues to conduct 50/50 draws, with Albertans able to purchase tickets online from anywhere in the province.  

Ryan Bartoshyk, AJHL commissioner, says, “The strength of the AJHL is its communities. Through unique and dynamic relationships, the AJHL and its member teams are deeply intertwined throughout the province. Although the challenges over the past year were new and unfamiliar, the community support and passion for our teams has been unwavering and we are excited to capture that passion through this initiative.” 

The Jackpots For Junior Hockey 50/50 will run each weekend in March. As part of Jackpots For Junior Hockey, teams will be required to share a portion of proceeds received with local charities. 

The AJHL contribute $56M annually to the Alberta economy. WHL and AJHL attendance for season games typically averages over 1 million fans a year. 

Information provided by the Government of Alberta.