When the pandemic shut down traditional winter hockey, a handful of friends in Langford turned a casual skate into a weekly pickup game. That simple idea sparked the birth of Sauce N Summer, a league that has since transformed into a structured, six‑division competition featuring more than 250 skaters.
Founders and Players
The league was officially launched in 2022 by Zack Whittaker and Kenny Britton, two passionate hockey enthusiasts who saw an opportunity to give off‑season players a competitive outlet. Whittaker now skates for Trinity Western University, while Britton continues his professional career with the Birmingham Bulls of the Southern Professional Hockey League.
Participants come from a variety of junior and collegiate programs, including teams in the WHL, BCHL, and NCAA. The league offers a professional‑grade environment with licensed officials, curated music during play, and dressing rooms equipped with assigned stalls, custom name bars, tape, and nutritional products.
Growth and Community Impact
In 2023 the league expanded to include a female division, overseen by Megan Bouveur. The program has grown from two initial teams to a full college division and four U18 squads, providing more girls with a chance to compete at a high level during the summer months.
The season culminates each year with the Dayton Clarke Memorial Championship at Westhills Arena. The tournament honors Dayton Clarke, a talented player who skated in the league’s inaugural season and grew up playing minor hockey alongside Zack Whittaker.
Beyond the ice, the league’s success is credited to the community spirit and the dedicated people behind it. From volunteers managing logistics to sponsors providing gear, the collective effort has turned a grassroots experiment into a lasting institution for summer hockey in the region.