SASKATOON— Warman Mayor Gary Philipchuk said they welcome the relocation of the Notre Dame Hounds to their city after the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League Board of Governors last week conditionally approved the move for the 2025-26 season.
The franchise’s move now awaits Warman city council’s approval, which will be discussed and decided on during one of its meetings in March. The exact date of the meeting has not yet been set.
Philipchuk told SaskToday that they expect the move to enhance Warman’s status as one of the province’s fastest-growing cities and attract more investment. Successful season ticket sales and corporate sponsorship will complete the transfer.
“We are excited to welcome the team to our community, build on the team's momentum in Wilcox, and create a new fan base and energy. It brings a talent and entertainment that we welcome,” Philipchuk said in an email.
“Many [towns] are close, so we see the economic benefits and energy to keep our growth continuing. I hope the community embraces the team, with many hockey fans buying season tickets. I also expect our regional business community to sponsor the team.”
The Warman Home Centre Communiplex will be the franchise's new home, with plans to renovate and upgrade the facility once the move is finalized. A collaboration between the new owners and other partners will fund the project.
“The number of seats could be increased and a press box added. The arena currently holds 1,178 seated visitors and 500 standing. The details are still being discussed. It will be a partnership with the ownership group, corporate sponsorship and community support,” Philipchuk added.
Jonathan Abrametz and Cole Kachur co-founded the Warman franchise. They promised to bring top-notch junior hockey games that would attract fans from Saskatoon, Martensville and other nearby towns.
The Hounds, founded in 1933, last won the SJHL title in the 2001-02 season. They had an incredible run in 1988 when they successfully defended their SJHL title and became the Junior A national champions after defeating the Halifax Lions for the Centennial Cup.
That same year, the Hounds were awarded the Abbott Cup as the Western Canada Junior A hockey champions and defeated Manitoba Junior Hockey League champions Winnipeg South Blues for the Anavet Cup.
The Hounds had been part of the SJHL since 1987, allowing junior hockey players to pursue their education while honing their skills in one of the country’s top Junior A hockey leagues. Despite its interest in maintaining premier experience, the Notre Dame board of directors decided to discontinue the Junior A hockey program in Wilcox.
