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- calendar_today October 22, 2026
WHL Navigates Change: Commissioner Near Shares Insights
Western Hockey League (WHL) commissioner Dan Near recently addressed the current landscape of junior hockey, particularly for teams in Saskatchewan, during an appearance with the media in Swift Current, Sask. The interview took place ahead of a fundraising event for the Canadian Cancer Society held by the Swift Current Broncos.
The State of Saskatchewan Teams in the WHL
According to Near, the five Saskatchewan franchises remain strong amid significant changes in the junior hockey environment. Three of these are community-owned teams, which Near says creates "maybe more community feeling than anywhere else in the league." The changing landscape includes shorter team-building cycles and a shift in player recruitment, as eligibility rules have enabled major junior players to join NCAA universities in the United States. This has contributed to new approaches in roster construction, with WHL teams bringing in a mix of Junior A players, younger NCAA prospects, and a slightly higher number of European and American players than in previous years.
Community-Owned Teams: Viability and Economic Pressures
“It costs more every year to operate. It costs more to live, right?” Near said, referencing rising operational costs for community-owned teams. He emphasized the need for ongoing revenue generation to cover increasing expenses in areas such as player nutrition, rest, recovery, training, and mental health. Near stressed that continuous support from fans, sponsors, and government is necessary for these teams to remain viable—especially as facility upgrades and other investments are required to keep up with evolving standards.
Fan Engagement and Revenue Strategies
To address these financial pressures, Near suggested that teams need to evolve their engagement with fans. He stated, "We need more season ticket holders. We probably need, in the long run, a higher average ticket price." Creating value for fans through merchandise and game attendance is a central focus, as any money raised by community teams is reinvested in operations. Near highlighted the importance of maintaining competitiveness with NCAA programs to attract and retain talented players.
League Expansion and Streaming Rights
Expansion remains on the league’s agenda. Near confirmed that Chilliwack is currently a market under consideration, with negotiations ongoing with an exclusive group in the area. An announcement regarding expansion may come soon if talks are successful.
On streaming rights, Near acknowledged recent disruption but confirmed the WHL is currently using YouTube as an interim solution. A variety of options are expected to be presented to the league’s board in November, with considerations including revenue, rights retention, the potential for condensed or alternate content, and consumer data to enhance marketing efforts.
Recruitment in a Changing Junior Hockey Landscape
Changes to eligibility rules have impacted player recruitment across the league. Near explained that the pathways for young athletes are now less fragmented, with most top western prospects choosing the WHL over other leagues. The league is also seeing changes in team compositions, with fewer 20-year-olds and 16-year-olds, replaced by a stronger core of 17- to 19-year-olds. Near stated that only time will tell how these changes in player movement and development affect individual careers and the league as a whole.
Player Safety and Health Standards
The issue of player safety remains a priority for the WHL, especially in light of recent events involving a Canadian player’s hospitalization during an NCAA training session. Near said that while the league’s protocols are “deeply vetted,” ongoing discussions with team managers and coaches continue to reinforce vigilance regarding health, safety, and responsible practices. Near emphasized the league’s duty of care for its players, most of whom are away from home, and noted, "We take a pretty strong responsibility as if these players are with their parents."
Looking Forward
As the WHL navigates rising operational costs, evolving recruitment practices, and the need for fan engagement, the league continues to assess its community-based model, explore new markets, and advance player safety protocols. Commissioner Near anticipates further adjustments and reflection as the junior hockey landscape continues to change.
Source: cbc.ca.
