Manitoba Junior Hockey League
Encyclopedia
The Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) is a Junior 'A' ice hockey
league operating in the Canadian
province of Manitoba
. The MJHL is one of eleven Junior 'A' Hockey Leagues in Canada and is a member of the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL).
The MJHL consists of 11 teams in two divisions, six in the Addison Division and five in the Sher-Wood Division (The Portage Terriers
were granted a move to the Addison division in June 2011). Each team plays 62 games during the regular season and the top four teams in each division qualify for league playoffs. The playoffs are an elimination tournament consisting of three rounds of best-of-seven series. The first two rounds determine which team from each division will advance to the final round. The winner of that series becomes the MJHL and Turnbull Cup champion.
The winner of the MJHL playoffs (Turnbull Cup) continues on to play in the Anavet Cup
in a best-of-seven series against the champion of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League
. The winner of the Anavet Cup will compete in the Junior "A" National Championship Tournament for the Royal Bank Cup
.
. The first season consisted of each team playing six games. Over the years, more than 200 MJHL players have gone on to the National Hockey League
(NHL), and 11 of those MJHL graduates have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame
:
and Gordon Stratton
of the Winnipeg Barons set a league record for most points in a single season with 76 each. In 1957, Ray Brunel
of the St. Boniface Canadiens
broke it with 105.
, built by Jake Milford
won three titles in a row, and four in five years. In 1961, goalie Ernie Wakely
of the Winnipeg Braves was named Canada's outstanding junior hockey player for the month of January. In 1962, Clarence Campbell
president of the NHL attended inaugural Manitoba–Saskatchewan all-star game in Winnipeg.
In 1963 Jim Irving, captain of the Winnipeg Rangers
, was named Manitoba's outstanding junior athlete and received the Carl Pederson Memorial Award.
Goaltender Wayne Stephenson
led the Winnipeg Braves to the MJHL Championship in 1965. In 1967, future Hall of Famer Bobby Clarke
of the Flin Flon Bombers
set league records for most goals (71), assists (112), and points (183), in a single season. Clarke led the Bombers to win the MJHL title.
agreed to allowed three teams to enter the Western Hockey League
(WCHL), the Brandon Wheat Kings
and the Flin Flon Bombers
from the MJHL, and the Ben Hatskin
's owned Winnipeg Jets
. Hatskin, also owned three MJHL teams. Part of the agreement was the continuation of the MJHL, Hatskin sold his three teams to local interests, and the Winnipeg Warriors became the West Kildonan North Stars
, the St. James Braves became the St. James Canadians
, and the Winnipeg Rangers became the St. Boniface Saints
. These three teams along with the Winnipeg Monarchs
became the new MJHL. The Selkirk Steelers
, however joined the Central Manitoba Junior Hockey League (CMJHL). The very next year, the MJHL swallowed the CMJHL, creating a North Division to house all four teams, the Selkirk Steelers, Portage Terriers
, Dauphin Kings
, and Kenora Muskies
(who operated out of Fort Garry
the previous year). The existing teams created the South Division.
. Hori, a high school all-star in his homeland, would spend a year with the team and then return home to pass on what he had learned. A Canadian missionary to Japan, Father Moran was behind the idea. With CAHA
approval, Moran convinced the Japanese Skating Union to sponsor one player to a year in Canada. The CAHA chose Winnipeg as the site because of the added experience from watching the Canadian National Team
, and the Monarchs volunteered.
leaving the Winnipeg Jets
of the WCHL and joining the Dauphin Kings
. Goring played the night before in Kenora for the Kings during a regular season game. The MJHL gave the Kings approval to use Goring in regular season and playoff games. Goring was leading the WCHL in goals at the time. Monday, WCHL president Ron Butlin said a court injunction would be sought against Goring and another Jet forward Merv Haney from playing with the Dauphin Kings. Also saying the CHA would be "taking whatever action is necessary against Dauphin and the MAHA for damages." Goring and Haney would play for the Kings, all the way to the Western Memorial Cup
Finals.
, former coach of Canada's national team
, recommended Lindberg to the Monarchs.
were the first "dynasty
" of the new MJHL, winning the league three out of four years, 1969, 1970, and 1972, and boasting such stars as Ron Low
, Butch Goring
, and Ron Chipperfield
. The Kings went to the Western Memorial Cup
final in 1969, and in 1972 recorded 40 wins, a modern day MJHL record. Charlie Simmer
of the Kenora Muskies
won the scoring title in 1973, the same year the Portage Terriers
were crowned National Champs, winning the Centennial Cup. In 1974, the Selkirk Steelers
won the national crown, giving the MJHL back to back "Canadian Championships". It was players such as Low, Goring, Chipperfield, Simmer, Chuck Arnason
, Murray Bannerman
, Paul Baxter
, John Bednarski
, Rick Blight
, Dan Bonar
, Brian Engblom
, Glen Hanlon
, Bob Joyce
, Barry Legge
, Perry Miller
, Chris Oddleifson
, Curt Ridley
, Rick St. Croix
, Blaine Stoughton
, and Andy Van Hellemond
who gave the new MJHL its foundation.
dominated, between 1974 and 1987, winning eight MJHL championships, including three in a row. The 1974 Steelers were inducted into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
, as were the 1973 Portage Terriers
. In 1975, Jim Misener
of the Dauphin Kings
led the league in goals with 73, breaking Bobby Clarke
's single season record of 71. In 1977, the Dauphin Kings won their fourth MJHL title in a decade, led by Misener who became the MJHL career leader in goals, assists, and points.
and Kildonan North Stars
, saying "No, I am not going to allow these characters an opportunity to beat on each other any longer. I am calling the series (a best-of-seven) and awarding it to Dauphin on the basis they won two of the three games completed." The decision came just hours after the two clubs had engaged in a pre-game brawl, in which two Kings players were taken to hospital and two North Stars were criminally charged. Chris Walby
was convicted of common assault, and granted a conditional discharge. The CAHA
was not as kind, suspending Walby for life.
led the Winnipeg South Blues
to the first of four MJHL Championships in 8 years in 1982. In 1983, Mike Ridley
of the St. Boniface Saints
broke both Jim Misener
's goal scoring record and Bobby Clarke
's points record. In 95, Cory Cyrenne
of the Saints was chosen Canadian Junior A Hockey League (CJAHL) Player of the Year, and the Winnipeg South Blues won their fifth championship, on their road to a second Anavet Cup
, and an Abbott Cup
. The 1995 Blues were inducted into Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
. In 1998, Jedd Crumb of the Blues led the CJAHL in goals with 61.
, who won five straight MJHL championships. Only the legendary Elmwood Millionaires
(1927–1931) had ever won five in a row. Junior Lessard
of the Portage Terriers
was named CJAHL Player of the Year in 2000. Blizzard goaltenders Preston McKay (1998) and Marc Andre Leclerc (2001) led the CJAHL in goals against average
, and left winger Andrew Coates (2003) led in goals. In 2004, Aaron Starr of the Blizzard became the first MJHL player to lead the CJAHL in scoring with 118 points.
reported a hazing incident to Kim Davis, MJHL Commissioner. After an investigation, Davis confirmed that a 15-year-old player had come forward with allegations of sexual-based rookie hazing in the Natives' locker room. A record $5000 fine and 18 suspensions resulted from the incident. The Natives gained even more negative press by benching and refusing to release or trade the 15-year-old who brought the issue to light.
playoffs (Credential Cup) for the Anavet Cup
. Since 1991 the winner goes to the Royal Bank Cup
tournament (1991-94 Centennial Cup tournament). An Abbott Cup
Champion was crowned from the results of the round robin part of this tournament until 1999, when the Cup was retired.
Between 1970 and 1991, the Anavet Cup
Champions advanced to the Abbott Cup
against the winner of AJHL/BCHL (Doyle Cup). With the winner going on to the Centennial Cup meeting the Eastern Canada Champions for the National Junior ‘A’ title.
Prior to 1971, the winner of the MJHL playoffs (Turnbull Cup) competed for the Abbott Cup
(Western Canadian Junior Championship), and then the Memorial Cup
for the National Junior Championship. These post MJHL playoffs are commonly known as the Memorial Cup playoffs (M-Cup), for the MJHL Champs the road was firstly the Western M-Cup Semi-finals and Finals (Abbott Cup), and then the Memorial Cup Finals. During this 53 year era (1918-1970), MJHL Teams won 18 Abbott Cup
s, and 11 Memorial Cup
s.
(1971 to Present)
(1919 to 1970) Western Canadian Junior Championships
Abbott Cup
(1971 to 1999) Western Canadian Junior ‘A’ Championships
(1919-1970) National Junior Championships
Centennial Trophy
(1971 to 1990) National Junior ‘A’ Championships
Ice hockey
Ice hockey, often referred to as hockey, is a team sport played on ice, in which skaters use wooden or composite sticks to shoot a hard rubber puck into their opponent's net. The game is played between two teams of six players each. Five members of each team skate up and down the ice trying to take...
league operating in the Canadian
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
province of Manitoba
Manitoba
Manitoba is a Canadian prairie province with an area of . The province has over 110,000 lakes and has a largely continental climate because of its flat topography. Agriculture, mostly concentrated in the fertile southern and western parts of the province, is vital to the province's economy; other...
. The MJHL is one of eleven Junior 'A' Hockey Leagues in Canada and is a member of the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL).
The MJHL consists of 11 teams in two divisions, six in the Addison Division and five in the Sher-Wood Division (The Portage Terriers
Portage Terriers
The Portage Terriers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:...
were granted a move to the Addison division in June 2011). Each team plays 62 games during the regular season and the top four teams in each division qualify for league playoffs. The playoffs are an elimination tournament consisting of three rounds of best-of-seven series. The first two rounds determine which team from each division will advance to the final round. The winner of that series becomes the MJHL and Turnbull Cup champion.
The winner of the MJHL playoffs (Turnbull Cup) continues on to play in the Anavet Cup
Anavet Cup
The Anavet Cup is a championship ice hockey trophy, won through a best-of-7 series, conducted by the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The series is played between the Turnbull Cup champions of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Credential Cup champions of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League...
in a best-of-seven series against the champion of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League
Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League
The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League is a Junior A ice hockey league under Hockey Canada, a part of the Canadian Junior Hockey League. Open to North American-born players 20 years of age or younger, the SJHL's 12 teams play in two divisions: the Bauer and Sherwood conferences...
. The winner of the Anavet Cup will compete in the Junior "A" National Championship Tournament for the Royal Bank Cup
Royal Bank Cup
The Royal Bank Cup is an annual ice hockey tournament held to determine the Canadian Junior A champion. The winner of the tournament wins the Royal Bank Cup...
.
Early years
The League has a rich tradition, first year of operation was the 1918–19 season, making it the oldest Junior League in Canada. At first the junior league was known as the Winnipeg and District League, until 1931 when it became the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. In its first year, there were nine teams in two divisions. The teams included the Winnipeg Pilgrims, Elmwood, Grand Trunk Pacific, Winnipeg Tigers, Young Men's Lutheran Club, Winnipeg Argonauts, Selkirk Fishermen, Weston, and Winnipeg MonarchsWinnipeg Monarchs
The Winnipeg Monarchs were a junior ice hockey team that played in the Western Canada Hockey League from 1967 to 1977 under three names. The team played as the Winnipeg Jets from 1967 to 1973; the Winnipeg Clubs from 1973 to 1976, and the Winnipeg Monarchs from 1976 to 1977. The Monarchs franchise...
. The first season consisted of each team playing six games. Over the years, more than 200 MJHL players have gone on to the National Hockey League
National Hockey League
The National Hockey League is an unincorporated not-for-profit association which operates a major professional ice hockey league of 30 franchised member clubs, of which 7 are currently located in Canada and 23 in the United States...
(NHL), and 11 of those MJHL graduates have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame
Hockey Hall of Fame
The Hockey Hall of Fame is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Dedicated to the history of ice hockey, it is both a museum and a hall of fame. It holds exhibits about players, teams, National Hockey League records, memorabilia and NHL trophies, including the Stanley Cup...
:
- Andy BathgateAndy BathgateAndrew James Bathgate is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey centre who played 17 seasons in the National Hockey League for the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins.-Playing career:...
, Turk BrodaTurk BrodaWalter "Turk" Broda was an ice hockey goaltender, playing his entire career for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League . Broda was born in Brandon, Manitoba to a Ukrainian family; joining the Maple Leafs in 1936.-Personal:...
, Art CoulterArt CoulterArthur Edmund Coulter was a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman who played for the New York Rangers and Chicago Black Hawks in the National Hockey League....
, Bobby ClarkeBobby ClarkeRobert Earle Clarke, OC , better known as Bobby Clarke or, in later life, Bob Clarke, is a Canadian former professional ice hockey centre who played his entire National Hockey League career with the Philadelphia Flyers and is currently an executive with the team...
, Charlie GardinerCharlie Gardiner (ice hockey player)Charles Robert "Chuck" Gardiner was a Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender who played for the Chicago Black Hawks in the National Hockey League. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Gardiner moved with his family to Canada as a child...
, Bryan HextallBryan HextallBryan Aldwyn Hextall was a Canadian professional ice hockey forward who played for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League . Considered one of the top wingers of the 1940s, he led the NHL in goal scoring twice and in points once...
, Tom Johnson, Harry Oliver, Babe PrattBabe PrattWalter "Babe" Pratt was a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman/left winger who played for the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins in the National Hockey League.Babe was an important member of two Stanley Cup winning teams, the 1940 Rangers and 1945 Maple Leafs...
, Terry SawchukTerry SawchukTerrance Gordon Sawchuk was a Ukrainian-Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender who played 21 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Los Angeles Kings and New York Rangers.-Early life and playing career:Sawchuk was born and raised...
, and Jack Stewart.
1950s
In 1955, the brothers ArtArt Stratton
Arthur Stratton is a retired professional ice hockey player. He played 95 NHL games with the New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Black Hawks, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Philadelphia Flyers.-Awards and achievements:...
and Gordon Stratton
Gordon Stratton
Gordon Stratton was a Canadian ice hockey right winger who recording 474 goals and 502 assists for 976 points as a pro.-Awards and achievements:*MJHL Goal Scoring Leader *MJHL Co-Scoring Champion...
of the Winnipeg Barons set a league record for most points in a single season with 76 each. In 1957, Ray Brunel
Ray Brunel
Raymond Edward Joseph Brunel was a Canadian ice hockey centreman who played 842 professional games with 272 goals, 420 assists for 692 career points....
of the St. Boniface Canadiens
St. Boniface Canadiens
In 1952 the Winnipeg Canadiens were bought and renamed the St. Boniface Canadiens.The St. Boniface Canadiens were a Manitoba Junior Hockey League Team. The St. Boniface Canadiens won 4 Turnbull Cup Championships as Manitoba Junior Champions, 1953, 1954, 1956, & 1958.The 1953 St...
broke it with 105.
1960s
In the early sixties, the powerhouse Brandon Wheat KingsBrandon Wheat Kings
The Brandon Wheat Kings are a Canadian junior ice hockey team based in Brandon, Manitoba. They compete in the Western Hockey League, and joined the league in the 1967–68 season. Prior to that they played in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and were known as the Brandon Elks for a short time in the...
, built by Jake Milford
Jake Milford
John Calverley "Jake" Milford was a general manager in the National Hockey League....
won three titles in a row, and four in five years. In 1961, goalie Ernie Wakely
Ernie Wakely
Ernest Alfred Linton Wakely is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. Wakely was a goaltender in the National Hockey League for the Montreal Canadiens and St. Louis Blues...
of the Winnipeg Braves was named Canada's outstanding junior hockey player for the month of January. In 1962, Clarence Campbell
Clarence Campbell
Clarence Sutherland Campbell OBE, QC was the third president of the National Hockey League from 1946 to 1977.-Early life and career:...
president of the NHL attended inaugural Manitoba–Saskatchewan all-star game in Winnipeg.
In 1963 Jim Irving, captain of the Winnipeg Rangers
Winnipeg Rangers
The Winnipeg Rangers were a Canadian junior hockey team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. The Rangers won 4 Turnbull Cup Championships as Manitoba Junior Champions, 1941, 1943, 1961, and 1966....
, was named Manitoba's outstanding junior athlete and received the Carl Pederson Memorial Award.
Goaltender Wayne Stephenson
Wayne Stephenson
Wayne Frederick Stephenson was a Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender. He was born in Fort William, Ontario.-Playing career:...
led the Winnipeg Braves to the MJHL Championship in 1965. In 1967, future Hall of Famer Bobby Clarke
Bobby Clarke
Robert Earle Clarke, OC , better known as Bobby Clarke or, in later life, Bob Clarke, is a Canadian former professional ice hockey centre who played his entire National Hockey League career with the Philadelphia Flyers and is currently an executive with the team...
of the Flin Flon Bombers
Flin Flon Bombers
The Flin Flon Bombers are a junior ice hockey team and current member of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League , and are based in Flin Flon, Manitoba, Canada. The team moved and became the Edmonton Oil Kings in 1978, but the Flin Flon Bomber name was retained...
set league records for most goals (71), assists (112), and points (183), in a single season. Clarke led the Bombers to win the MJHL title.
1967 and 1968
During the summer of 1967, the MAHAHockey Manitoba
Hockey Manitoba is the governing body of all amateur ice hockey in Manitoba, Canada. Hockey Manitoba is a branch affiliate of Hockey Canada. Hockey Manitoba was founded in 1914 as the Manitoba Amateur Hockey Association.-Leagues:...
agreed to allowed three teams to enter the Western Hockey League
Western Hockey League
The Western Hockey League is a major junior ice hockey league based in Western Canada and the Northwestern United States. The WHL is one of three leagues that constitute the Canadian Hockey League as the highest level of junior hockey in Canada...
(WCHL), the Brandon Wheat Kings
Brandon Wheat Kings
The Brandon Wheat Kings are a Canadian junior ice hockey team based in Brandon, Manitoba. They compete in the Western Hockey League, and joined the league in the 1967–68 season. Prior to that they played in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and were known as the Brandon Elks for a short time in the...
and the Flin Flon Bombers
Flin Flon Bombers
The Flin Flon Bombers are a junior ice hockey team and current member of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League , and are based in Flin Flon, Manitoba, Canada. The team moved and became the Edmonton Oil Kings in 1978, but the Flin Flon Bomber name was retained...
from the MJHL, and the Ben Hatskin
Ben Hatskin
Benjamin Hatskin was a Canadian businessman and the founder of the Winnipeg Jets.-Early life and education:...
's owned Winnipeg Jets
Winnipeg Monarchs
The Winnipeg Monarchs were a junior ice hockey team that played in the Western Canada Hockey League from 1967 to 1977 under three names. The team played as the Winnipeg Jets from 1967 to 1973; the Winnipeg Clubs from 1973 to 1976, and the Winnipeg Monarchs from 1976 to 1977. The Monarchs franchise...
. Hatskin, also owned three MJHL teams. Part of the agreement was the continuation of the MJHL, Hatskin sold his three teams to local interests, and the Winnipeg Warriors became the West Kildonan North Stars
St. Boniface Canadiens
In 1952 the Winnipeg Canadiens were bought and renamed the St. Boniface Canadiens.The St. Boniface Canadiens were a Manitoba Junior Hockey League Team. The St. Boniface Canadiens won 4 Turnbull Cup Championships as Manitoba Junior Champions, 1953, 1954, 1956, & 1958.The 1953 St...
, the St. James Braves became the St. James Canadians
St. James Canadians
The St. James Canadians were a Canadian junior hockey team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League until 2003, folding officially in 2004. The Canadians played out of the St. James Civic Centre, in Winnipeg, Manitoba...
, and the Winnipeg Rangers became the St. Boniface Saints
Winnipeg Saints
The Winnipeg Saints are a Manitoba Junior Hockey League team playing out of the Centre. They played out of Dakota Community Centre in Winnipeg until the end of 2009-10 season. The team played out of St. Adolphe during the 2010-11 season, but played their home playoff games at the MTS Iceplex in...
. These three teams along with the Winnipeg Monarchs
Winnipeg Monarchs
The Winnipeg Monarchs were a junior ice hockey team that played in the Western Canada Hockey League from 1967 to 1977 under three names. The team played as the Winnipeg Jets from 1967 to 1973; the Winnipeg Clubs from 1973 to 1976, and the Winnipeg Monarchs from 1976 to 1977. The Monarchs franchise...
became the new MJHL. The Selkirk Steelers
Selkirk Steelers
For the American football team, see Pittsburgh Steelers. For other uses, see Steelers .The Selkirk Steelers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada...
, however joined the Central Manitoba Junior Hockey League (CMJHL). The very next year, the MJHL swallowed the CMJHL, creating a North Division to house all four teams, the Selkirk Steelers, Portage Terriers
Portage Terriers
The Portage Terriers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:...
, Dauphin Kings
Dauphin Kings
The Dauphin Kings are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada...
, and Kenora Muskies
Kenora Thistles
The Kenora Thistles were an early amateur men's ice hockey team based in Kenora, Ontario, Canada, formed in 1885 as a senior team by a group of Lake of the Woods lumbermen. The club is notable for winning the Stanley Cup as an amateur team in 1907. The town is the smallest in population to have...
(who operated out of Fort Garry
Fort Garry
Fort Garry, also known as Upper Fort Garry, was a Hudson's Bay Company trading post at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers in what is now downtown Winnipeg. It was established in 1822 on or near the site of the North West Company's Fort Gibraltar. Fort Garry was named after Nicholas...
the previous year). The existing teams created the South Division.
Japanese star
On September 19, 1968, the Winnipeg Monarchs announced the signing of Hiroshi Hori, a defenceman from JapanJapan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
. Hori, a high school all-star in his homeland, would spend a year with the team and then return home to pass on what he had learned. A Canadian missionary to Japan, Father Moran was behind the idea. With CAHA
Hockey Canada
Hockey Canada, formally known as the Canadian Hockey Association, is the national governing body of ice hockey in Canada and is a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation. Hockey Canada controls a vast majority of ice hockey in Canada, with a few exceptions...
approval, Moran convinced the Japanese Skating Union to sponsor one player to a year in Canada. The CAHA chose Winnipeg as the site because of the added experience from watching the Canadian National Team
Canadian national men's hockey team
The Canadian national ice hockey team is the ice hockey team representing Canada. The team is overseen by Hockey Canada, a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation, and participates in international competitions. From 1920 until 1963, Canada's international representation was by senior...
, and the Monarchs volunteered.
Butch Goring incident
On Sunday February 9, 1969, the MJHL held a special emergency meeting to discuss Butch GoringButch Goring
Robert "Butch" Goring is a retired Canadian ice hockey player. He played 16 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings, New York Islanders and Boston Bruins. He is a four-time Stanley Cup winner with the Islanders. Since retiring as a player he has served as head coach of...
leaving the Winnipeg Jets
Winnipeg Monarchs
The Winnipeg Monarchs were a junior ice hockey team that played in the Western Canada Hockey League from 1967 to 1977 under three names. The team played as the Winnipeg Jets from 1967 to 1973; the Winnipeg Clubs from 1973 to 1976, and the Winnipeg Monarchs from 1976 to 1977. The Monarchs franchise...
of the WCHL and joining the Dauphin Kings
Dauphin Kings
The Dauphin Kings are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada...
. Goring played the night before in Kenora for the Kings during a regular season game. The MJHL gave the Kings approval to use Goring in regular season and playoff games. Goring was leading the WCHL in goals at the time. Monday, WCHL president Ron Butlin said a court injunction would be sought against Goring and another Jet forward Merv Haney from playing with the Dauphin Kings. Also saying the CHA would be "taking whatever action is necessary against Dauphin and the MAHA for damages." Goring and Haney would play for the Kings, all the way to the Western Memorial Cup
Memorial Cup
The Memorial Cup is a junior ice hockey club championship trophy awarded annually to the Canadian Hockey League champion. It is awarded following a four-team, round robin tournament between a host team and the champions of the CHL's three member leagues: the Ontario Hockey League , Quebec Major...
Finals.
Swedish import
In September 1971, Winnipeg Monarchs President Bob Westmacott announced 17-year-old Stephan Lindberg of Sweden had been invited to training camp. Jack BownassJack Bownass
John "Jack" Bownass was a professional ice hockey player who played 80 games in the National Hockey League. He played with the Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers. He was also a member of the Canadian National Hockey Team...
, former coach of Canada's national team
Canadian national men's hockey team
The Canadian national ice hockey team is the ice hockey team representing Canada. The team is overseen by Hockey Canada, a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation, and participates in international competitions. From 1920 until 1963, Canada's international representation was by senior...
, recommended Lindberg to the Monarchs.
The new MJHL
The Dauphin KingsDauphin Kings
The Dauphin Kings are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada...
were the first "dynasty
Dynasty (sports)
A sports dynasty is a team that dominates their sport or league for multiple seasons or years. Such dominance is often only realized in retrospect...
" of the new MJHL, winning the league three out of four years, 1969, 1970, and 1972, and boasting such stars as Ron Low
Ron Low
Ronald Albert Low is a former Canadian ice hockey goaltender and coach. He grew up in Foxwarren, Manitoba.-Playing career:...
, Butch Goring
Butch Goring
Robert "Butch" Goring is a retired Canadian ice hockey player. He played 16 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings, New York Islanders and Boston Bruins. He is a four-time Stanley Cup winner with the Islanders. Since retiring as a player he has served as head coach of...
, and Ron Chipperfield
Ron Chipperfield
Ronald James Chipperfield is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who served as the Edmonton Oilers' first NHL captain...
. The Kings went to the Western Memorial Cup
Memorial Cup
The Memorial Cup is a junior ice hockey club championship trophy awarded annually to the Canadian Hockey League champion. It is awarded following a four-team, round robin tournament between a host team and the champions of the CHL's three member leagues: the Ontario Hockey League , Quebec Major...
final in 1969, and in 1972 recorded 40 wins, a modern day MJHL record. Charlie Simmer
Charlie Simmer
Charles Robert Simmer is a retired ice hockey forward, most notably for the Los Angeles Kings in the National Hockey League, who was notable for his scoring and power play prowess.-Playing career:...
of the Kenora Muskies
Kenora Thistles
The Kenora Thistles were an early amateur men's ice hockey team based in Kenora, Ontario, Canada, formed in 1885 as a senior team by a group of Lake of the Woods lumbermen. The club is notable for winning the Stanley Cup as an amateur team in 1907. The town is the smallest in population to have...
won the scoring title in 1973, the same year the Portage Terriers
Portage Terriers
The Portage Terriers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:...
were crowned National Champs, winning the Centennial Cup. In 1974, the Selkirk Steelers
Selkirk Steelers
For the American football team, see Pittsburgh Steelers. For other uses, see Steelers .The Selkirk Steelers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada...
won the national crown, giving the MJHL back to back "Canadian Championships". It was players such as Low, Goring, Chipperfield, Simmer, Chuck Arnason
Chuck Arnason
Ernest Charles "Chuck" Arnason is a former Canadian professional ice hockey right wing who played 401 games over 8 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Montreal Canadiens, Atlanta Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, Kansas City Scouts, Cleveland Barons, Colorado Rockies, Minnesota North Stars...
, Murray Bannerman
Murray Bannerman
Murray Bannerman is a retired Canadian ice hockey goaltender.Murray spent most of his career with the Chicago Black Hawks. In 1983, he was a part of the Campbell Conference's roster at the 35th National Hockey League All-Star Game...
, Paul Baxter
Paul Baxter
Paul Gordon Baxter was an National Hockey League defenceman from 1979 to 1987 and an NHL assistant coach for eleven seasons. He was coaching the Wenatchee Wild in the NAHL before his firing in late November 2010...
, John Bednarski
John Bednarski
John Severn Bednarski was an ice hockey defenceman in the National Hockey League. Over the course of his career, he played the New York Rangers and the Edmonton Oilers....
, Rick Blight
Rick Blight
Richard Derek Blight was a professional hockey player.A native of Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, Blight had a long and varied career in the sport of hockey, playing the position of Right Wing for teams in the NHL, MJHL, WCHL, CHL, and the AHL hockey leagues...
, Dan Bonar
Dan Bonar
Daniel Gordon Bonar is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey forward who played 170 games in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings.-Awards and achievements:...
, Brian Engblom
Brian Engblom
Brian Paul Engblom is an ice hockey broadcaster and retired Canadian professional hockey defenseman.-Biography:...
, Glen Hanlon
Glen Hanlon
Glen A. Hanlon is a retired Canadian National Hockey League goaltender and a former head coach of the Washington Capitals of the NHL, Dynamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League , and the Belarusian national ice hockey team. He was a goaltender scout for the Vancouver Canucks...
, Bob Joyce
Bob Joyce
Robert Thomas Joyce is a former Canadian ice hockey player who played 6 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals and Winnipeg Jets...
, Barry Legge
Barry Legge
Barry Graham Legge is a retired professional ice hockey player who played 107 games in the National Hockey League and 345 games in the World Hockey Association...
, Perry Miller
Perry Miller (ice hockey)
Perry Miller is a retired professional ice hockey player who played 201 games in the World Hockey Association and 217 games in the National Hockey League...
, Chris Oddleifson
Chris Oddleifson
Christopher Roy Oddleifson is a retired professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League from 1972 until 1981...
, Curt Ridley
Curt Ridley
Curtis Charles Ridley is a retired Canadian ice hockey goaltender. He played 104 games in the National Hockey League with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vancouver Canucks.-External links:...
, Rick St. Croix
Rick St. Croix
Richard St. Croix is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender. He is currently one of the assistant coaches of the AHL's Manitoba Moose. He was a 4th round NHL draft pick, as were his two sons.-Playing career:St...
, Blaine Stoughton
Blaine Stoughton
Blaine Stoughton is a retired professional ice hockey forward who played eight seasons in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Hartford Whalers and New York Rangers, which "bookended" three seasons in the WHA....
, and Andy Van Hellemond
Andy Van Hellemond
Andy Van Hellemond is a former National Hockey League referee and a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame since 1999....
who gave the new MJHL its foundation.
Selkirk Steelers domination
The Selkirk SteelersSelkirk Steelers
For the American football team, see Pittsburgh Steelers. For other uses, see Steelers .The Selkirk Steelers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada...
dominated, between 1974 and 1987, winning eight MJHL championships, including three in a row. The 1974 Steelers were inducted into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
The Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1985 when the first honoured members were named and plaques were erected in their honour. The first group of inductees was large in order to recognize the accomplishments of Manitoba players, coaches, builders and teams at the...
, as were the 1973 Portage Terriers
Portage Terriers
The Portage Terriers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:...
. In 1975, Jim Misener
Jim Misener
Jim Misener was a Canadian ice hockey winger who became the MJHL career leader in points, assists, and goals by the end of the 76-77 season.-Awards and achievements:*MJHL Scoring Champion...
of the Dauphin Kings
Dauphin Kings
The Dauphin Kings are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada...
led the league in goals with 73, breaking Bobby Clarke
Bobby Clarke
Robert Earle Clarke, OC , better known as Bobby Clarke or, in later life, Bob Clarke, is a Canadian former professional ice hockey centre who played his entire National Hockey League career with the Philadelphia Flyers and is currently an executive with the team...
's single season record of 71. In 1977, the Dauphin Kings won their fourth MJHL title in a decade, led by Misener who became the MJHL career leader in goals, assists, and points.
Chris Walby incident
On April 5, 1977, MJHL commissioner Bill Addison called off the Turnbull Cup Finals between the Dauphin KingsDauphin Kings
The Dauphin Kings are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada...
and Kildonan North Stars
St. Boniface Canadiens
In 1952 the Winnipeg Canadiens were bought and renamed the St. Boniface Canadiens.The St. Boniface Canadiens were a Manitoba Junior Hockey League Team. The St. Boniface Canadiens won 4 Turnbull Cup Championships as Manitoba Junior Champions, 1953, 1954, 1956, & 1958.The 1953 St...
, saying "No, I am not going to allow these characters an opportunity to beat on each other any longer. I am calling the series (a best-of-seven) and awarding it to Dauphin on the basis they won two of the three games completed." The decision came just hours after the two clubs had engaged in a pre-game brawl, in which two Kings players were taken to hospital and two North Stars were criminally charged. Chris Walby
Chris Walby
Chris Walby is a retired Canadian Football League player who played the offensive tackle position almost exclusively with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers...
was convicted of common assault, and granted a conditional discharge. The CAHA
Hockey Canada
Hockey Canada, formally known as the Canadian Hockey Association, is the national governing body of ice hockey in Canada and is a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation. Hockey Canada controls a vast majority of ice hockey in Canada, with a few exceptions...
was not as kind, suspending Walby for life.
1980s and 1990s
Grant LedyardGrant Ledyard
Grant Stuart Ledyard is a former National Hockey League defenceman. He was never drafted in the NHL Entry Draft.Ledyard made his NHL debut in the 1984–85 season with the New York Rangers. A journeyman, he played with nine NHL teams during his career. He spent the most time with the Buffalo...
led the Winnipeg South Blues
Winnipeg South Blues
The Winnipeg Blues are a Manitoba Junior Hockey League team playing out of the MTS Iceplex in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. They were formerly known as the Fort Garry Blues, Winnipeg South Blues, and the Winnipeg Monarchs...
to the first of four MJHL Championships in 8 years in 1982. In 1983, Mike Ridley
Mike Ridley
Michael Owen Guy Ridley is a retired professional ice hockey centre who played in the NHL for 12 seasons from 1985 until 1997....
of the St. Boniface Saints
Winnipeg Saints
The Winnipeg Saints are a Manitoba Junior Hockey League team playing out of the Centre. They played out of Dakota Community Centre in Winnipeg until the end of 2009-10 season. The team played out of St. Adolphe during the 2010-11 season, but played their home playoff games at the MTS Iceplex in...
broke both Jim Misener
Jim Misener
Jim Misener was a Canadian ice hockey winger who became the MJHL career leader in points, assists, and goals by the end of the 76-77 season.-Awards and achievements:*MJHL Scoring Champion...
's goal scoring record and Bobby Clarke
Bobby Clarke
Robert Earle Clarke, OC , better known as Bobby Clarke or, in later life, Bob Clarke, is a Canadian former professional ice hockey centre who played his entire National Hockey League career with the Philadelphia Flyers and is currently an executive with the team...
's points record. In 95, Cory Cyrenne
Cory Cyrenne
Cory Cyrenne is a former professional ice hockey player. He was named the Canadian Junior A Hockey Player of the Year in 1995 and received a hockey scholarship to Colorado College. He was also named the CHL's Sportsmanlike player of the year in 1998.Cyrenne was at times a controversial player...
of the Saints was chosen Canadian Junior A Hockey League (CJAHL) Player of the Year, and the Winnipeg South Blues won their fifth championship, on their road to a second Anavet Cup
Anavet Cup
The Anavet Cup is a championship ice hockey trophy, won through a best-of-7 series, conducted by the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The series is played between the Turnbull Cup champions of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Credential Cup champions of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League...
, and an Abbott Cup
Abbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
. The 1995 Blues were inducted into Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame
The Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1985 when the first honoured members were named and plaques were erected in their honour. The first group of inductees was large in order to recognize the accomplishments of Manitoba players, coaches, builders and teams at the...
. In 1998, Jedd Crumb of the Blues led the CJAHL in goals with 61.
OCN Blizzard
Then came the OCN BlizzardOCN Blizzard
The Opaskwayak Cree Nation Blizzard are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from The Pas, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada. The team is owned by the Opaskwayak Cree Nation.-History:The...
, who won five straight MJHL championships. Only the legendary Elmwood Millionaires
Elmwood Millionaires
The Elmwood Millionaires is a now defunct Canadian Junior Hockey team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. The Millionaires, based in Elmwood, Manitoba, won 5 straight Turnbull Cup Championships as Manitoba Junior ‘A’ Champions, 1927, 1928, 1929, 1930 & 1931, and a 6th in 1936. The 1929 Elmwood...
(1927–1931) had ever won five in a row. Junior Lessard
Junior Lessard
Lucien Lessard, Jr known as Junior Lessard is a professional ice hockey player currently playing for Idaho Steelheads of the ECHL.-Playing career:...
of the Portage Terriers
Portage Terriers
The Portage Terriers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:...
was named CJAHL Player of the Year in 2000. Blizzard goaltenders Preston McKay (1998) and Marc Andre Leclerc (2001) led the CJAHL in goals against average
Goals against average
Goals Against Average is a statistic used in ice hockey, water polo, lacrosse, and soccer that is the mean of goals allowed per game by a goaltender....
, and left winger Andrew Coates (2003) led in goals. In 2004, Aaron Starr of the Blizzard became the first MJHL player to lead the CJAHL in scoring with 118 points.
Neepawa hazing incident
In October 2011, the Neepawa NativesNeepawa Natives
The Neepawa Natives are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Neepawa, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:...
reported a hazing incident to Kim Davis, MJHL Commissioner. After an investigation, Davis confirmed that a 15-year-old player had come forward with allegations of sexual-based rookie hazing in the Natives' locker room. A record $5000 fine and 18 suspensions resulted from the incident. The Natives gained even more negative press by benching and refusing to release or trade the 15-year-old who brought the issue to light.
Teams
| Addison Division | ||||||||||
| Team | Centre | |||||||||
| Portage Terriers Portage Terriers The Portage Terriers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:... |
Portage La Prairie Portage la Prairie, Manitoba -Transportation:Portage la Prairie railway station is served by Via Rail with both The Canadian and Winnipeg – Churchill trains calling at the station.... |
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| Selkirk Steelers Selkirk Steelers For the American football team, see Pittsburgh Steelers. For other uses, see Steelers .The Selkirk Steelers are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada... |
Selkirk Selkirk, Manitoba Selkirk is a city in the western Canadian province of Manitoba, located about 22 km northeast of the provincial capital Winnipeg on the Red River, near . As of the 2006 census, Selkirk had a population of 9,515.... |
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| Steinbach Pistons | Steinbach Steinbach, Manitoba Steinbach is a city of approx. 13,500 people in the southeast corner of the province of Manitoba, Canada, a short distance from the capital Winnipeg. Steinbach is the largest community in the Eastman region of Manitoba. The city is located in the R.M. of Hanover and bordered to the east by the R.M... |
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| Winkler Flyers Winkler Flyers The Winkler Flyers are a Manitoba Junior Hockey League team playing out of the Winkler Arena in Winkler, Manitoba, Canada. The Flyers entered the MJHL as an expansion team for the 1980-81 season. Famous NHL players to have played on this team include Eddie "The Eagle" Belfour... |
Winkler Winkler, Manitoba Winkler is a small city with a population of about 9,900 located in southern Manitoba, Canada in the Rural Municipality of Stanley... |
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| Winnipeg Blues | Winnipeg | |||||||||
| Winnipeg Saints Winnipeg Saints The Winnipeg Saints are a Manitoba Junior Hockey League team playing out of the Centre. They played out of Dakota Community Centre in Winnipeg until the end of 2009-10 season. The team played out of St. Adolphe during the 2010-11 season, but played their home playoff games at the MTS Iceplex in... |
Winnipeg | |||||||||
| Sher-Wood Division | ||||||||||
| Team | Centre | |||||||||
| Dauphin Kings Dauphin Kings The Dauphin Kings are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada... |
Dauphin Dauphin, Manitoba Dauphin is a small city in Manitoba, Canada, with a population of 7,906 as of 2006. The nearby lake was given the name "Dauphin" by the explorer Pierre Gaultier de Varennes, sieur de La Vérendrye in 1741 in honour of the heir to the French throne... |
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| Neepawa Natives Neepawa Natives The Neepawa Natives are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Neepawa, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League , a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-History:... |
Neepawa Neepawa, Manitoba Neepawa is a town in Manitoba, Canada located on the Yellowhead Highway at the intersection with Highway 5. its population was 3,298. Neepawa was incorporated as a town in 1883. It is located in the Rural Municipality of Langford and bordered to the north by the Rural Municipality of Rosedale.... |
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| OCN Blizzard OCN Blizzard The Opaskwayak Cree Nation Blizzard are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from The Pas, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada. The team is owned by the Opaskwayak Cree Nation.-History:The... |
The Pas The Pas, Manitoba The Pas is a town in Manitoba, Canada, located in Division No. 21, Manitoba in the Northern Region, some 630 kilometres northwest of the provincial capital, Winnipeg, near the border of Saskatchewan. It is sometimes still called Paskoyac by locals as the first trading post was called Fort Paskoyac... |
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| Swan Valley Stampeders Swan Valley Stampeders The Swan Valley Stampeders are a Canadian Junior "A" ice hockey team from Swan River, Manitoba, Canada. They are members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, a part of the Canadian Junior A Hockey League and Hockey Canada.-Season-by-Season record:... |
Swan River Swan River, Manitoba -Economy:The economic base of the town lies in agriculture and forestry along with support industries for same.Almost fifty percent of the surrounding area is under cultivation, most of which is seeded to cereal grain, oilseeds, and other specialty crops. Wheat, rye, barley, oats, flax, and canola... |
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| Waywayseecappo Wolverines Waywayseecappo Wolverines The Waywayseecappo Wolverines are a junior ice hockey team playing in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. They play their home games in the Waywayseecappo Wolverines Complex in Waywayseecappo, Manitoba, Canada... |
Waywayseecappo Waywayseecappo First Nation The Waywayseecappo First Nation is a First Nation located twenty miles east of Russell in Manitoba, Canada. The Nation's Reserve is 10,059 hectare and is located near the southwestern corner of the Riding Mountain National Park. It is bordered by the Rural Municipality of Rossburn and the Rural... |
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Turnbull Cup Champions
- For the Western Regional playoffs, please go to the Anavet CupAnavet CupThe Anavet Cup is a championship ice hockey trophy, won through a best-of-7 series, conducted by the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The series is played between the Turnbull Cup champions of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Credential Cup champions of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League...
. - For the National Championship, please go to the 2011 Royal Bank Cup2011 Royal Bank CupThe 2011 Royal Bank Cup was the Junior "A" 2011 ice hockey National Championship for the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The 2011 Royal Bank Cup marked the 41st consecutive year a national championship has been awarded to this skill level since the breakaway of Major Junior hockey in 1970.The Royal...
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Manitoba Junior Championships (1918 to 1970)
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Manitoba Junior ‘A’ Championships (1971 to Present)
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Formats
Starting in 1971, the winner of the MJHL playoffs (Turnbull Cup) plays the winner of Saskatchewan Junior Hockey LeagueSaskatchewan Junior Hockey League
The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League is a Junior A ice hockey league under Hockey Canada, a part of the Canadian Junior Hockey League. Open to North American-born players 20 years of age or younger, the SJHL's 12 teams play in two divisions: the Bauer and Sherwood conferences...
playoffs (Credential Cup) for the Anavet Cup
Anavet Cup
The Anavet Cup is a championship ice hockey trophy, won through a best-of-7 series, conducted by the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The series is played between the Turnbull Cup champions of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Credential Cup champions of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League...
. Since 1991 the winner goes to the Royal Bank Cup
Royal Bank Cup
The Royal Bank Cup is an annual ice hockey tournament held to determine the Canadian Junior A champion. The winner of the tournament wins the Royal Bank Cup...
tournament (1991-94 Centennial Cup tournament). An Abbott Cup
Abbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
Champion was crowned from the results of the round robin part of this tournament until 1999, when the Cup was retired.
Between 1970 and 1991, the Anavet Cup
Anavet Cup
The Anavet Cup is a championship ice hockey trophy, won through a best-of-7 series, conducted by the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The series is played between the Turnbull Cup champions of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Credential Cup champions of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League...
Champions advanced to the Abbott Cup
Abbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
against the winner of AJHL/BCHL (Doyle Cup). With the winner going on to the Centennial Cup meeting the Eastern Canada Champions for the National Junior ‘A’ title.
Prior to 1971, the winner of the MJHL playoffs (Turnbull Cup) competed for the Abbott Cup
Abbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
(Western Canadian Junior Championship), and then the Memorial Cup
Memorial Cup
The Memorial Cup is a junior ice hockey club championship trophy awarded annually to the Canadian Hockey League champion. It is awarded following a four-team, round robin tournament between a host team and the champions of the CHL's three member leagues: the Ontario Hockey League , Quebec Major...
for the National Junior Championship. These post MJHL playoffs are commonly known as the Memorial Cup playoffs (M-Cup), for the MJHL Champs the road was firstly the Western M-Cup Semi-finals and Finals (Abbott Cup), and then the Memorial Cup Finals. During this 53 year era (1918-1970), MJHL Teams won 18 Abbott Cup
Abbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
s, and 11 Memorial Cup
Memorial Cup
The Memorial Cup is a junior ice hockey club championship trophy awarded annually to the Canadian Hockey League champion. It is awarded following a four-team, round robin tournament between a host team and the champions of the CHL's three member leagues: the Ontario Hockey League , Quebec Major...
s.
Manitoba/Saskatchewan Junior ‘A’ Hockey Championships
Anavet CupAnavet Cup
The Anavet Cup is a championship ice hockey trophy, won through a best-of-7 series, conducted by the Canadian Junior Hockey League. The series is played between the Turnbull Cup champions of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Credential Cup champions of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League...
(1971 to Present)
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Western Canadian Junior Hockey Championships
Abbott CupAbbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
(1919 to 1970) Western Canadian Junior Championships
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Abbott Cup
Abbott Cup
The Abbott Memorial Cup, commonly referred to as the Abbott Cup, was awarded annually from 1919 through 1999 to the Junior "A" ice hockey Champion for Western Canada....
(1971 to 1999) Western Canadian Junior ‘A’ Championships
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National Junior Hockey Championships
Memorial CupMemorial Cup
The Memorial Cup is a junior ice hockey club championship trophy awarded annually to the Canadian Hockey League champion. It is awarded following a four-team, round robin tournament between a host team and the champions of the CHL's three member leagues: the Ontario Hockey League , Quebec Major...
(1919-1970) National Junior Championships
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Centennial Trophy
Royal Bank Cup
The Royal Bank Cup is an annual ice hockey tournament held to determine the Canadian Junior A champion. The winner of the tournament wins the Royal Bank Cup...
(1971 to 1990) National Junior ‘A’ Championships
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Individual awards
- Steve "Boomer" Hawrysh Award MVP
- MJHL Top Goaltender AwardMJHL Top Goaltender AwardThe MJHL Top Goaltender Award is presented annually to the Manitoba Junior Hockey League's goaltender judged to be the best at his position during the regular season.Starting in 1971, the MJHL’s Top Goaltender received Terry Sawchuk Memorial Trophy....
- Brian Kozak AwardBrian Kozak AwardThe Brian Kozak Award is presented annually to the Manitoba Junior Hockey League's defenceman who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position during the regular season. The award was first presented in 1977....
Top Defenceman - Vince Leah TrophyVince Leah TrophyVince Leah Born in Winnipeg, "Uncle Vince" Leah was a sportswriter with both The Winnipeg Tribune and Winnipeg Free Press for over 60 years. For more than three decades his dedication made it possible for youngsters to play hockey. Vince Leah founded the Excelsiors Hockey Club; 40 of those players...
Rookie of the Year - Lorne Lyndon Memorial TrophyLorne Lyndon Memorial TrophyLorne Lyndon was one of Canada's most renowned officials for 20 years, 1933-1953. He officiated 6 Allan Cup finals, 3 Memorial Cup finals, and the Alexander Cup in 1951....
Hockey Ability and Sportsmanship - Muzz McPherson AwardMuzz McPherson AwardAn award presented to the Manitoba Junior Hockey League coach adjudged to have contributed the most to his team’s success.MJHL Coach of the Year- References :****Winnipeg Free Press Archives*Brandon Sun Archives...
Coach of the Year - Mike Ridley TrophyMike Ridley TrophyThe Mike Ridley Trophy is awarded to the player who leads the Manitoba Junior Hockey League in points scoring during the regular season.-MJHL Scoring Champions:CJHL Leaders highlined- References :****Winnipeg Free Press Archives*Brandon Sun Archives...
Scoring Champion - MJHL Top Goal ScorersMJHL Top Goal Scorers- MJHL Top Goal Scorers:CJHL Leaders highlined- References :****Winnipeg Free Press Archives*Brandon Sun Archives...
- MJHL All-Star TeamsMJHL All-Star Teams-from 1941 to 1950:-from 1951 to 1960:-from 1961 to 1970:-from 1971 to 1980:-from 1981 to 1990:-from 1991 to 2000:-from 2001:- References :****Winnipeg Free Press Archives*Brandon Sun Archives...
- MJHL All Rookie TeamMJHL All Rookie TeamThe MJHL All-Rookie Team is chosen from the best rookies in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League at each position for the season just concluded based on their performance in that year. The team consists of one goalie, two defensemen and three forwards.- References :...
- MJHL Playoff MVPMJHL Playoff MVPAn Award given to the most valuable player in each season’s Manitoba Junior Hockey League playoff competition.- MJHL Playoff MVP :- References :****Winnipeg Free Press Archives...
- CJAHL Player of the Year (MJHL)
Scholarships
- RBC Financial Group MJHL ScholarshipRBC Financial Group MJHL Scholarship-Overview:RBC offered to students by Royal Bank of Canada-Scholarships:RBC Royal Bank Scholarship for UndergraduatesRBC Royal Bank Scholarship for First-Year Medical & Dental StudentsRBC Junior 'A' Scholarship Awards...
- Ed Belfour High Performance AwardEd Belfour High Performance AwardEd Belfour a former MJHL star who went on to success in the National Hockey League as one of the most dominant goalies of his era. A Calder Trophy winner, a two time Vezina Trophy winner, a three time NHL All-Star, and a Stanley Cup....
- Frank McKinnon ScholarshipFrank McKinnon ScholarshipFrank McKinnon served 18 years as a member of the MAHA and five year as a member of the CAHA. He was a Vice-President and Director of the Sports Federation of Canada, a Vice-President of the Canadian Olympic Association, a Congress member of the International Ice Hockey Federation and a Trustee...
Defunct teams
- Thunder Bay HornetsThunder Bay HornetsThe Thunder Bay Hornets were a Junior "A" ice hockey team from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. At their height, they won two consecutive Bronze Medals at the Western Canadian Junior B Championships - the Keystone Cup and later were in competition for the National Junior A Championship, the...
- Brandon Elks
- Brandon Travellers
- CUAC Blues
- East Kildonan Bisons
- Elmwood Maple Leafs
- Elmwood MillionairesElmwood MillionairesThe Elmwood Millionaires is a now defunct Canadian Junior Hockey team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. The Millionaires, based in Elmwood, Manitoba, won 5 straight Turnbull Cup Championships as Manitoba Junior ‘A’ Champions, 1927, 1928, 1929, 1930 & 1931, and a 6th in 1936. The 1929 Elmwood...
- Kildonan North StarsKildonan North StarsThe Kildonan North Stars were a Canadian Junior ice hockey Team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League from Winnipeg, Manitoba.-History:During the summer of 1967, community-minded sports group purchased the Winnipeg Warriors from Ben Hatskin, renaming them the West Kildonan North Stars...
- St. Boniface Athletics
- St. Boniface SealsSt. Boniface SealsThe St. Boniface Seals were a Canadian Junior Hockey Team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.The 1938 St. Boniface Seals beat the defending National Champion Winnipeg Monarchs for the Turnbull Cup, the Thunder Bay champs Port Arthur for the Abbott Cup, before going on to defeat Oshawa Generals to...
- Stonewall JetsStonewall JetsThe Stonewall Jets are a MMJHL hockey team that plays in Stonewall, Manitoba, Canada. They joined ther MMJHL in 2001 after being in the MJBHL since 1964. Their first head coach in the MMJHL was Ed harvie. Their first general manager was Bill Smith. Their biggest rival is the Charleswood Hawks...
- St. James CanadiansSt. James CanadiansThe St. James Canadians were a Canadian junior hockey team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League until 2003, folding officially in 2004. The Canadians played out of the St. James Civic Centre, in Winnipeg, Manitoba...
- St. James Orioles
- Steinbach Hawks
- Thompson King MinersThompson King MinersThe Thompson King Miners were a Canadian junior ice hockey team from Thompson, Manitoba, Canada. The King Miners were members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the NorMan Junior Hockey League.-History:...
- Winnipeg Air Cadets
- Winnipeg Esquires
- Winnipeg Falcon-Rangers
- Winnipeg Hockey ClubWinnipeg Hockey ClubThe Winnipeg Hockey Club were a former amateur senior-level men's amateur ice hockey team in Winnipeg, Manitoba founded in 1890. They represented Canada at the 1932 Winter Olympics held at Lake Placid, New York. The team was undefeated throughout the Olympic tournament and were named the 1932...
- Winnipeg Junior FalconsWinnipeg Junior FalconsThe Winnipeg Junior Falcons were a Canadian Junior Hockey Team in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.The 1921 Winnipeg Junior Falcons were the first Western team to win the Memorial Cup...
- Winnipeg Wellingtons
- Wolseley Flyers
See also
- List of MJHL seasons
- Manitoba Junior Hockey League players
- Manitoba Hockey Hall of FameManitoba Hockey Hall of FameThe Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1985 when the first honoured members were named and plaques were erected in their honour. The first group of inductees was large in order to recognize the accomplishments of Manitoba players, coaches, builders and teams at the...