Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association and Foothills Bisons Announce Collaborative Approach for Elite U13AA and U13AAA Programs for 2025-26 Season
Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association and Foothills Bisons Announce Collaborative Approach for Elite U13AA and U13AAA Programs for 2025-26 Season
Okotoks, AB - February 27, 2025 - The Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association (OOAA) and the Foothills Bisons are excited to announce a new collaborative approach for the 2025-26 hockey season, combining their resources and expertise to provide an integrated pathway for Elite U13AA and U13AAA players.
In a groundbreaking partnership, both associations have agreed to unite for the 2025-26 season, working together throughout the tryout process and the entire competitive season. This collaboration will ensure that athletes from both the Foothills Bisons and the Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association have access to the highest level of hockey development and a fair and unified process for team selection.
For the Elite U13AAA program, the draw zone will follow the U16AA guidelines, allowing for a broader selection of athletes. Meanwhile, the Elite U13AA roster will be composed of an unrestricted number of players from both the Foothills Bisons and Okotoks Oiler draw zones. This approach will help create an environment that nurtures talent, fosters teamwork, and ensures the best players are selected based on their skill and potential, without restrictions on how many players from each association can be chosen.
The team selection for both the U13AAA and U13AA squads will be conducted collaboratively by coaches from both organizations, ensuring a balanced and merit-based approach. With a focus on player development, the teams will consist of 15 skaters and 2 goalies each. U13AA team will make Blackie its home arena, with ice team arrangements currently being finalized. Meanwhile, the U13AAA team will continue to call Okotoks its home, reinforcing the local pride and support for this elite group of athletes.
“We believe this partnership will provide players in our region with an enhanced development experience and foster a more competitive environment for all athletes involved,” said Dan Laplante President of Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association. “By joining forces with the Foothills Bisons, we are ensuring that the best talent in our community has the opportunity to compete at the highest levels, while continuing to promote camaraderie and sportsmanship.”
“Collaboration is key to the growth and development of our young athletes, and this partnership between the Foothills Bisons and Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association sets the stage for an exciting and successful season,” added Steve Debienne AA Director, Foothills Minor Hockey. “Together, we’re committed to providing an excellent hockey experience that will benefit players, coaches, and our local communities alike.”
The tryout process for both U13AAA and U13AA can be found on the websites below..
This collaborative effort is designed to provide a clear, transparent, and inclusive pathway for young hockey players aspiring to reach their full potential in an elite setting. Both organizations are excited to embark on this new chapter and are committed to the growth of hockey in the Foothills region.
For more information, please contact:
Candice Wyma or Jenn Dustow
U13AAA
Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association
Email: cwyma@okotokshockey.com jdustow@okotokshockey.com
Dustin Connor
U13AA Director
Foothills Bisons
Phone: (403) 333- 8626
Email: dustin.connor@foothillsbisons.ca
For updated information on the Tryouts/ID Skates please refer to the websites below.
OOAA - Https://ooaaoilerhockey.ca/content/2025-spring-evaluations
Foothills Bisons - www.foothillsbisons.ca
