2026 Canada Winter Games Prep & Identification Camps

Hockey NWT will be hosting a Canada Winter Games (CWG) Prep Camp and Identification Camp from August 10-16, 2026 in Yellowknife, NT, providing an important opportunity for athletes across the territory to prepare and be evaluated for Team NT.

CAMP STRUCTURE

The week will be divided into two key components:

CWG Prep Camp
August 10-12 - This optional portion is designed to support athletes with on-ice conditioning and skill development, especially those who may have had limited access to ice during the summer.

Athletes will receive:

Two ice sessions per day
Focus on skating, conditioning, puck touches, and battle drills

CWG Identification Camp
August 13-16 - This phase will focus on evaluation and team identification.

Athletes will take part in:

Two daily ice sessions
Morning practices
Evening games
Male division sessions will include full contact
This camp plays a key role in the selection pathway for the 2027 Canada Winter Games.

Athlete Eligibility

Men’s Division
Under 16 as of December 31, 2026
Birth years: 2011-2015
Up to three (3) athletes born in 2010 may be selected under the Small Jurisdiction Strategy

Women’s Division
Under 18 as of December 31, 2026
Birth years: 2009-2015
Up to three (3) athletes born in 2008 may be selected under the Small Jurisdiction Strategy
All athletes must meet eligibility requirements outlined by the Canada Games Council.

Final team selections for the Canada Winter Games will take place later in the fall and winter, with additional camps expected. Participation in future camps will be by invitation only. Exact ice times and final scheduling will be confirmed following the City of Yellowknife Ice Users Meeting in May.

Hockey NWT recognizes that August can be a busy time for athletes, with many attending tryouts or having prior commitments. Athletes who are unable to attend the Identification Camp are encouraged to notify Hockey NWT to explore alternate evaluation options.

This camp represents an exciting step in the journey toward the Canada Winter Games, offering athletes the chance to develop, compete, and showcase their skills on the territorial stage.