Image: WHL

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Western Hockey League

Update: BCHL responds after WHL initiates franchise application process for Chilliwack for 2026-27 season

Mar 24, 2025 | 8:21 AM

UPDATE 9:30 A.M., MONDAY: The BCHL has issued a statement after acknowledging that ownership of the Penticton Vees has acquired a WHL expansion squad starting this fall, and the City of Chilliwack has been identified as a WHL expansion location for 2026-27.

The BCHL says the current Penticton Vees ownership will retain its membership in the BCHL and will look to relocate in the near future, while the Chiefs organization, who had no involvement in the city’s WHL expansion process, is committed to the BCHL and has already formally indicated they will play in the league in 2025-26, expressing their commitment beyond that as well.

“The BCHL remains committed to advancing its position as one of the world’s premier college-tracking junior hockey leagues,” said Rich Murphy, Chairman of the BCHL Board of Governors. “We thank the Vees organization for their contributions to the league and we look forward to continuing to work with them as they move forward with their relocation. In addition, we are pleased to have the Chiefs organization in the BCHL next season and beyond.”

“Our focus remains firmly on the future, one that is filled with opportunities for growth and league unity, while continuing our commitment to developing elite student athletes,” continued Murphy. “The BCHL continues to evolve as junior hockey undergoes significant changes, but its foundation remains solid. The league is committed to its mission of creating an environment for student athletes to develop, not only on the ice, but away from it as well, in the gym and in the classroom.”

As a member of the BCHL, there will be no interruption to the Vees current season. Further details about their relocation will be provided at a later date.

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Original story below from 8:21 a.m. Monday morning: 

CHILLIWACK — The Western Hockey League announced Monday morning (Mar. 24) that it has awarded an expansion franchise to the Penticton Vees and initiated a franchise application process with the City of Chilliwack to begin play in the 2026-27 WHL season.

According to a statement, the WHL says the announcements herald a new opportunity to develop junior hockey players.

“This is an exciting day, as the Western Hockey League takes its next step as the world’s finest development league for junior hockey players,” said WHL Commissioner Dan Near. “Communities within B.C. produce talented young players from thriving grassroots hockey programs and we’re pleased to deliver WHL franchises to two important centres in the province – Penticton and Chilliwack. In each market the WHL operates in, we aim to serve as role models within the local hockey community, business community, and beyond. We look forward to the opportunity to continue these efforts in Penticton and Chilliwack.”

The WHL says Chilliwack is a longstanding outpost for junior hockey in the Lower Mainland, and believes that as a growing and thriving community with dedicated municipal government, Chilliwack will quickly establish itself as a pillar of strength in the WHL.

“Having the WHL select Chilliwack for expansion is exciting for our community,” said Jason Lum, Acting Mayor of the City of Chilliwack. “The league has a strong track record of supporting youth programs and local charities while boosting the economy in its home cities. Along with the high calibre of play, the WHL also plays a crucial role in developing future NHL stars.”

Hockey Canada has granted approval for the Penticton Vees to join the WHL and return to sanctioned hockey activities.

“Today’s announcement is an exciting moment for hockey in British Columbia and Western Canada, and we are thrilled that fans in Penticton and Chilliwack will get to experience elite-level junior hockey in their communities,” said Katherine Henderson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hockey Canada. “Providing Canadian athletes with premier development opportunities in our country is of the utmost importance to Hockey Canada and our Members, and we anticipate the WHL’s expansion will have a positive impact on our efforts with BC Hockey to grow the game in a hockey system that prioritizes the safety and wellness of participants. We congratulate the WHL and the cities of Penticton and Chilliwack for their roles in ensuring the sport of hockey continues to thrive and unite communities across our country.”

On Friday, the City of Chilliwack announced that it would reclaim ownership of the Chilliwack Coliseum on May 1, 2025. The Chiefs Development Group and City of Chilliwack are currently working on an agreement for management operations until May 2026, and they’ll also work with current tenants on a transition plan.

“The Chiefs Development Group have been a great partner, helping us provide residents with an incredible facility for many years, and we wish them all the best as they move forward,” said Mayor Ken Popove. “We are looking forward to making upgrades that will increase safety, accessibility, and energy savings, along with increased ice time and dry floor activities for Chilliwack residents to enjoy.”

As owners, the City plans to make large capital improvements to the Coliseum, which could increase the overall patron experience.

“We are extremely proud of this public private partnership and our ability to provide a beautiful facility for the community,” said Chilliwack Chiefs’ President Moray Keith. “The Coliseum was completed on time and on budget.”

Keith added that the CDG saved the City of Chilliwack close to $6 million and is turning the Coliseum over to the City four years early.

“We are proud of the relationships the Chiefs Development Group and Chiefs Hockey Club continue to build in our community[…] On the ice, the Chiefs continue to be a leader of in-season NCAA commitments across North America.”

“The people of Chilliwack hold a very special place in our hearts.”

Fraser Valley Today reporter Alyssa Conti contributed to this report.