The 2025 Esso Cup is fast approaching, and Lloydminster is preparing to host Canada’s top U18AAA female hockey teams.
In preparation for the event, the Centennial Civic Centre is redoing the boards, and the ice is also sporting a new look.
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Deanna Wandler, marketing lead for the tournament, said it’s been a rewarding experience working with local businesses and media.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to collaborate with community-minded businesses and local media partners,” said Wandler.
“As the marketing lead, I’ve had the opportunity to develop a variety of content for social media, signage, and promotional materials.”
Additionally, Wandler praises her fellow committee members.
“I’m proud to be amongst an amazing group of passionate individuals that make up the 2025 Esso Cup committee,” she said. “(The) majority of them are parents to our Steelers.”
Meanwhile, the U18AAA Lloydminster PWM Steelers will compete in the tournament, representing the host city.
“Being able to share in their excitement for their daughters makes it so rewarding to be a part of,” said Wandler.
Wandler says anticipation is high with the tournament fast approaching.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled for the Steelers,” she said. “These talented young women eat, sleep, and breathe hockey.”
The Esso Cup runs from April 20–26 at the Civic Centre.
Dan Auchenburg, head coach of the Steelers and general manager of the Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association, estimates the event will cost around $200,000. Hockey Canada provides just over 10 per cent of that total, leaving the rest up to the community.
Wandler said the community has stepped up to support the event.
“Having the chance to compete at the national championship right here at home is something truly special,” said Wandler. “We’re beyond grateful for the unwavering support of our sponsors and the many volunteers who stepped up to help.”
Approximately 150 volunteers are helping with the event. From logistics to ice level and everything in between, the volunteers are helping the community.
She’s also eager to meet the national organizers.
“I’m really looking forward to finally meeting some of the amazing Hockey Canada representatives our committee has been collaborating with,” said Wandler.
She hopes the event will create lasting memories for the players and the community.
“What I hope to take away from this experience is a real sense of accomplishment,” she said. “Knowing our Steelers were part of something truly special.”
Meanwhile, the team is working hard in preparation to play.
“They are skating four times a week, they do workouts every Monday and run two times a week,” said Auchenburg. “We are getting them ready for the grind. If all goes well, it will be seven straight days of hockey.”
With the event approaching, ticket sales are picking up.
“Ticket sales are going ok, still room for more,” said Wandler.
Lloydminster will see an influx of people as teams start coming in from out of town.
“The Edmonton Jr. Oilers are headed this way as well as the Saskatoon Stars,” said Wandler. “It isn’t a far drive for fans of theirs.”
“Individual game tickets have now been released,” she added. “We are definitely looking forward to more ticket sales in the days to come.”
Wandler encouraged the community to show their support and attend the games.
“There’s so much happening throughout the week—including a Family Fun Zone tent everyone can enjoy outside the rink,” she said.
This will be the Civic Centre’s final major event.
“Let’s send the Civic Centre off in style—pack the barn and be part of one unforgettable final hurrah!” said Wandler.
The Steelers play an exhibition game on April 10 against the Lakeland College Rustlers at 7 p.m. at the Civic Centre.
The Esso Cup kicks off April 20 at 11 a.m. The Steelers play each night at 7 p.m. for the first five days of the tournament. You can purchase tickets at the Hockey Canada website site.
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