CSSHL Western Championships lock in for another 10 years in Penticton

The Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) and its partners Okanagan Hockey Group, OVG360, Travel Penticton, and the City of Penticton have announced a new 10-year agreement (five years, with an additional five-year renewal clause) to continue hosting the Western Championships in Penticton beginning in March 2024.

“We’re excited that our championships will call Penticton home for the next decade,” says Kevin Goodwin, the Chief Operating Officer of the CSSHL. “Our organization is committed to excellence on and off the ice and Penticton is known across the country for the same commitment. Having a dedicated home base for s events will allow for teams and supports to plan more easily. This is a win-win for everyone – the players, the families, and local businesses.”

Over the length of the contract, it is estimated the economic impact on Penticton will be close to $40 million. This month’s tournament features 86 teams who are competing in the CSSHL championships over a period of two weeks. The sponsorship agreement, worth $100,000 per year, will see the number of participants increases annually as the league expands teams and programs across the country.

The head of Visit Penticton board notes the competition for signature events is competitive and many other municipalities would be keen on taking away some of these events.

“This is about continuing partnerships that have proven successful and building on them,” says Jessica Dolan, Chair of the Travel Penticton Board of Directors. “It’s also about keeping our edge. When people are looking to come to Penticton there are now two more reasons to come and enjoy – for more than just a day – all we have to offer. The Okanagan Granfondo: Penticton will expose our name farther a field and the CSSHL is going to offer a tremendous economic boost in a month that is traditionally a bit slower. These investments are vital to our still recovering economy.”