REGINA – Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) has announced that the Co-operators Centre will be the host venue for the 2026 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC).
The event that showcases the best young Indigenous hockey talent from across Canada from May 2-9, 2026.
Organized by the Aboriginal Sport Circle (ASC), the NAHC has been a cornerstone of Indigenous sport development since its inception in 2002. The week-long tournament features 16 elite teams (eight male and eight female) made up of bantam- and midget-aged Indigenous athletes. Sanctioned by Hockey Canada, the NAHC typically delivers an average economic impact of more than $1 million per category to its host communities.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our province to showcase our commitment to Indigenous sport," said Third Vice-Chief Fabian Head.
"The NAHC not only celebrates athletic excellence but also creates a space where Indigenous youth can connect with their culture, build lasting relationships and develop skills that extend far beyond the rink. We are honoured to host the 2026 event and look forward to welcoming athletes, coaches, and families from across Canada to Saskatchewan."
Chief Shelley Bear from Ochapowace Nation emphasized the importance of supporting Indigenous athletes through events like the NAHC.
“Ochapowace is the 2026 host nation and hosting NAHC gives us a chance to showcase our commitment to Indigenous youth development through sport," said Bear. "Sports and recreation are vital tools for building confidence, leadership and resilience in our young people. When we provide these opportunities, we're not just developing better athletes, we're developing stronger communities and future leaders who carry their cultural pride with them in everything they do."
Regina Mayor, Chad Bachynski welcomes this tournament to the Queen City and back to Saskatchewan for the first time since 2012.
"Hosting the 2026 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships is a tremendous honour for Regina,” says Bachynski.
“This tournament not only showcases the incredible talent of young Indigenous athletes from across Canada but also strengthens the bonds between communities through the spirit of sport. We proudly welcome all participants, families and fans to our city and look forward to an unforgettable championship.”
"The Regina Exhibition Association is thrilled to partner in bringing the 2026 NAHC to Saskatchewan,” said Trent Fraser, interim president and CEO of REAL.
“The Co-operators Centre is purpose-built for events of this calibre and not only showcases our province’s sporting facilities but also creates significant economic benefits for our communities. They provide a platform to celebrate the incredible talent of Indigenous athletes. We look forward to working with all partners to deliver an unforgettable experience and are proud to be co-hosting with Ochapowace First Nation.”
The NAHC tournament will bring athletes, staff, fans and families from across the nation to visit Regina for the week-long event.
More details about the event, including schedule and ticketing information, will be released closer to the date.
