World Jr. Hockey sets attendance record

Alberta has set a new attendance record for the International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship, attracting 571,539 fans from across Canada and around the world to Calgary and Edmonton from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5, an average of 18,437 people per game.

The total surpasses the previous tournament record of 453,282 set in 2009 in Ottawa. In addition to the 31 games in Calgary and Edmonton, junior hockey fans across the province witnessed international hockey through the pre-competition schedule, which included games in nine communities. Team USA and Switzerland played in Camrose on Dec. 21 in the EnCana Arena.

“As a host committee, we truly believe taking games across the province really started the momentum,” said Al Coates, executive director of the 2012 World Junior Championship. “This event began with the slogan Alberta United, and the great fans from across the province supported not only Team Canada, but all 10 competing countries.”

Camrose Minor Hockey players participated in the Discovery Hockey experiences and on-ice skills camps designed so that all Canadians would be able to say, "I Was There."

“Hockey Canada’s success in hosting events can be attributed to a number of key stakeholders,” said Hockey Canada president and CEO Bob Nicholson. “It starts with a relentless host committee, which empowered more than a thousand volunteers to bring the event to life. It is the fan experience that makes the World Juniors so special for every Canadian.”

The International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship will return to Canada in 2015.