By TERRY PUGH
The top 40 players from the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) and Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) are hoping their performance during the Western All-Star Challenge in Martensville November 3-5 will earn them a shot at representing western Canada on the world stage.
The 2025 Junior A World Challenge is set for December 7-13 in Trois-Rivieres, Quebec. Canada will have two teams – Canada West and Canada East. The Canada West team is coached by Trevor Blevins, coach of the Canterra Seeds Cup Champion Melfort Mustangs.
Blevins was also head coach of the SJHL team at the three-day Canada West Challenge event, which pitted the cream of the crop from the MJHL against the SJHL all-stars. The provincial teams split the two-game series, with Team SJHL winning 3-2 on Tuesday, November 4, and Team MJHL earning a 5-4 victory on Wednesday, November 5.
Team SJHL featured Kindersley Klippers defenceman Jaxon Herchak of Waldheim, as well as Warman Wolverines goaltender Taye Timmerman and defenceman Pherson Loehndorf.
Blevins said the Western All-Star Challenge event is a key component in evaluating players for the Junior A World Challenge event next month.
“We had a very successful week,” said Blevins. “We felt that all 40 players that came into camp worked really hard. We laid out things in practice with regard to structure and expectations, as well as the work ethic and the kind of player we want.
“I thought in both games all 40 players did a fantastic job in showcasing what we wanted and really executing plays to the best of their ability.”
Blevins said he was impressed with not just the calibre of talent on the ice, but also with the players’ commitment to reach the next level.
“They’re very coachable, and they’re going to be an elite group,” he said, adding those who are chosen to represent western Canada will have earned it by virtue of their hard work. Paring the roster down won’t be easy.
“It’s a process,” he said. “We have five great guys on our staff; we’ve had eyes on Alberta and we’ve had great exposure there, so when you mix in all three provinces, we’ll have a great team.”
The Junior A World Challenge will be a new experience for the head coach as well as the players; and it’s one Blevins is looking forward to.
“It’s going to be a great experience,” he said. “I can’t wait to get moving forward.”
Blevins, brother of former Martensville City Manager Scott Blevins, said he was impressed with the Martensville Recreation Centre facility, and the hospitality of the community.
“We can’t thank Martensville enough for hosting this event,” he said. “The people here did a great job. It’s been a fantastic experience for both the players and the coaching staff.”