President Ian Hall says there are plenty of positive takeaways from the return of the HJHL this year.

Hall is in his first year as president and there's an entirely new board for the junior B hockey league. They've focussed on improving the league both on and off the ice.

"First and foremost, I'm happy we got a full season in," says Hall. "I'm happy we got to crown a champion. It's been a little while since we got to do it--two years."

Behind the scene, the executive has revived the bylaws, become more professional in how it conducts business, revamped the league logo, and taken steps to improve its branding.

"We call it a 2.0 version of the HJHL, where we started to look at things that we could address to make it more attractive for players to come to, and to entice fans to come out and watch."

He believes the HJHL is an attractive option for hockey players who don't want the time commitment of other junior and post-secondary leagues so they can focus on their work or studies and still play competitive hockey. They also have a chance to earn scholarships.

"We're trying to show we have a good calibre of hockey. It's a passion of our team's leadership to put the best product on the ice."

He believes word of the league has been spreading further because of this focus. The final series between the Cochrane Generals and Okotoks Bisons is case and point. He was in Cochrane several times this season, including the Mar. 24 final. 

"There were two or three people who I spoke with who were surprised at the quality of the play. They had no idea, and I think that's something we've been trying to get out there, not just for fans, but players as well."

"We just need to find a way to get people in the door, because once they're in the door, they seem to be hooked."

About the only positive impact of COVID has been the return of some players to play closer to home from other out-of-province leagues.

On the downside, both Ponoka Stampeders and Stettler Lighting took a break during the 2021-22 season because of the impact of COVID restrictions. Hall says those teams have been discussing a return to play in the 2022-23 season.

"We're looking forward to having a full slate of teams next year and a full schedule."

They'll be a clearer picture when teams formally commit to play in mid-April.

The HJHL is one of three junior B leagues that have two teams in the provincials. Both the Gens and Bisons are lacing up in Wainwright starting Mar. 31.

"I think we are well represented. I think both Cochrane and Okotoks have a great chance of capturing gold, they just have to find a way to bring it all together for a weekend."

Still, provincials are a completely different beast, and it's a tight schedule with four games in four days, or five in four if you make the final.

"Honestly, in my experience, if you find a hot goalie that's outstanding for three days, they that can swing the whole tournament on its ears."

"It will be interesting to see. I like our chances. I think we've got two good teams. I would love to see an all HJHL final, so that's my hope, that's what I'm looking for."