Bellingham is set to welcome a new junior ice‑hockey franchise, the Bellingham Hockey Club, which will make its debut this fall in the 17‑and‑under division of the Junior Prospects Hockey League of western Canada. The team will call the Sportsplex Arena at the Civic Athletic Complex its home, and admission to games will be free, subject to change.
A fresh start after the Blazers' suspension
The club emerged after the Bellingham Blazers suspended operations for the 2025‑2026 season when a rules change allowed amateur players to compete in college, clearing a pathway for a new organization to take shape. This transition has generated considerable excitement among local fans and stakeholders.
Games are scheduled to begin in mid‑September, with the team traveling to league opponents in Saskatchewan and Alberta. The roster was completed in late May, and as of June 26, 15 players had been announced.
Vic Pereira will serve as head coach, bringing his experience to the bench, while Erick Ruud will assist as the team’s assistant coach. Their leadership aims to develop a competitive squad that reflects the community’s passion for the sport.
Community engagement and coverage
Official updates, player announcements and game schedules will be posted on the club’s website and Instagram. Local media partners, including the Cascadia Daily News, The Bellingham Herald and Western Washington University, are expected to provide ongoing coverage of the team’s progress and its impact on the region.