Child’s Hockey Sweater, c. mid-20th century

In 1894, hockey teams from Regina and Moose Jaw met in the first reported competition in what is now Saskatchewan. By 1900, there were competitive teams in Prince Albert, Moosomin and Indian Head. The first junior teams were formed while older players were serving overseas in the First World War.  

Learning to skate
Before minor hockey was organized in the 1950s, schools, churches and community groups taught the game. This child’s hockey sweater from Connaught School in North Battleford is a boys’ size large. The sweater reminds us of a time when little equipment was needed to play the game. Today, it can cost upwards of $3,000 to register and equip a child for hockey.   

Getting to ‘The Big Show’
From the most legendary icons, like Gordie Howe, Fred Sasakamoose, Bryan Trottier and Wendel Clark to more recent stars, like Hayley Wickenheiser, Ryan Getzlaf, Braden Holtby and the Schenn brothers Luke and Brayden, successful Saskatchewan players learned the game through the province’s high-quality youth hockey programs. 

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