WHL -- WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE
Western Canada and US Pacific Northwest. 22 teams. Major CHL league and NHL draft pipeline.
Western Hockey League -- Major Junior
22 TEAMS • BC, ALBERTA, SASK, MAN, WA
Founded 1966 • Part of Canadian Hockey League (CHL)
Teams
22
Age Range
16-20
Founded
1966
CHL Member
Yes
ABOUT THE WHL
The Western Hockey League is one of three Major Junior leagues in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL). With 22 teams across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the U.S. state of Washington, the WHL covers a vast geographic footprint. It is a premier development league for hockey players aiming for NCAA hockey and the NHL. Notable alumni include many Hall of Famers and current NHL stars. The WHL season runs from September through March, ending with the WHL Championship and Memorial Cup.