WHL enters into Partnership with Hockey Manitoba

Calgary, AB – Western Hockey League Commissioner Ron Robison is pleased to announce today that the WHL has entered into a new partnership with Hockey Manitoba to provide additional financial support for the hockey system in Manitoba.
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rThe new partnership will include the WHL sponsoring high performance programs and the top amateur Leagues at the Midget ‘AAA’ and Junior ‘A’ levels in Manitoba. The new agreement between Hockey Manitoba and the WHL will extend for a three year period through the 2009-10 season.
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rThe support provided by the WHL for Hockey Manitoba is due to the decision earlier this year to establish a Manitoba Development Model. The Manitoba Development Model has resulted in all major hockey constituents in Manitoba working together to improve provincial development programs and to encourage the top players to remain in the Canadian Hockey System. The principle partners in the Manitoba Development Model include Hockey Manitoba, the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL), the Manitoba Midget Hockey League (MMHL) and the WHL.
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rThe new partnership includes the WHL sponsoring Hockey Manitoba’s Under-16 and Under-17 high performance programs, the Manitoba Midget Hockey League and the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.
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r“We are pleased to increase our support for hockey programs in Manitoba,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison, “The Manitoba Development Model ensures the key constituents will work together to enhance player development opportunities throughout the province.”
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r“Hockey Manitoba is excited about the opportunity to partner with the Western Hockey League and is encouraged by their vision, leadership and commitment to hockey development,” exclaimed Brian Franklin, President of Hockey Manitoba.
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rThe WHL and its member Clubs provide over $1 million annually in support of local Minor Hockey programs and charities in Western Canada and the U.S. Pacific northwest.
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