What began as a handful of informal pickup games on the frozen ponds of Langford has evolved into a thriving six‑division summer hockey league that now boasts more than 250 skaters.
The league was officially launched in 2022 by Zack Whittaker and Kenny Britton, two local enthusiasts who saw an opportunity to keep the sport alive during the off‑season.
Whittaker, who currently suits up for Trinity Western University, and Britton, a veteran of the Birmingham Bulls in the Southern Professional Hockey League, have turned their shared passion into a community hub that welcomes players of all skill levels.
Beyond the men’s divisions, the league added a dedicated female division this year, offering women a structured environment to train and compete while the summer season reaches its climax on July 25 with the Dayton Clarke Memorial Championship at Westhills Arena.
Honouring a Local Legend
The championship game is more than just a finale; it is a tribute to Dayton Clarke, a longtime minor‑hockey player who grew up skating alongside Whittaker and was a key member of the league’s inaugural season. After Clarke’s passing in 2023, his family and the organizers collaborated to create an annual celebration of his legacy.
The event draws families, local businesses and hockey fans from across the region, reinforcing the league’s reputation as a cornerstone of summer sport on Vancouver Island. With strong community backing and continued growth, the league looks set to expand its reach and perhaps add more divisions in the years ahead.