WIJHL announces roster rules and important dates for the 2026-27 season.
With the Western International Junior Hockey League becoming an independent league on June 1, the league will operate under different regulations when it comes to team rosters.
“Over the past several months of recruiting efforts, we have heard a variety of different versions of people’s perspectives and understanding of our roster rules. For transparency’s sake, we are publicly releasing our rules so that players, families, and fans can have an understanding of our league’s roster rules. As you will see below, our rules coincide with our goal of developing younger players in order to prepare them for a higher level of hockey. This is consistent with our vision, strategic plan, and aligns with our partnerships and alliances. We’re very excited about the coming season and look forward to the inaugural regular season puck drop on September 18th.”
Beginning with our inaugural season, the Western International Junior Hockey League will operate under the following regulations.
Roster Rules
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Teams have a maximum of 25 active roster spots, plus an additional card if a team chooses to have a third goaltender.
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Canadian-based teams will require a minimum of 13 players of Canadian Citizenship.
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U.S.-based teams will require a minimum of 13 players of US Citizenship.
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Teams can dress a maximum of 21 players (19 skaters and 2 goaltenders) for a game.
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A maximum of six 20-year-olds on a roster are permitted at one time.
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A minimum of two players under the age of 18 are required for each team.
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A minimum of four rookies are required on a roster.
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Teams will be permitted to card one 15-year-old player for the entire season.
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There is no maximum number of 16-year-olds that can be on a team roster.
Important Dates
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September 30, 2026: A 24-hour roster freeze is in effect to support a Hockey Canada related deadline associated to players within the independent environment.
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January 23, 2027: WIJHL trade deadline
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February 10, 2027: WIJHL signing deadline
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February 15, 2027: WIJHL Affiliate deadline. After this date, affiliate players cannot be added to a team’s reserve roster.
