CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada announced that the nation’s capital will host Canada’s U18 Women’s National Club Championship, marking Ottawa’s first time hosting the tournament and the event’s first return to Ontario since 2019.
“The Esso Cup showcases some of the top young talent in our country, giving fans an opportunity to see them compete before they have the chance to wear the Maple Leaf on the international stage,” said D’Arcy Hutcheson, director of events and fan experience with Hockey Canada. “We are excited to return to Ontario and work alongside a dedicated group of host committee members, volunteers and sponsors to create a memorable experience for fans and teams. Together, we look forward to continuing to grow the female game and leaving a lasting legacy in Ottawa.”
The Esso Cup will see the host team, the Ottawa 67’s of the Ottawa Girls Hockey Association (OGHA), face off against five regional representatives from across the country (Atlantic, Ontario, Pacific, Quebec and West) to compete for Canada’s U18 Women’s National Club Championship at the Steve Yzerman Arena, April 18-24.
“We couldn’t be more proud to bring the Esso Cup to Ottawa for the first time,” said Tim Wilshaw, president of the Ottawa Girls Hockey Association. “Ottawa has a special connection to the women’s game, going back to the first Women’s World Championship in 1990, and we’re excited to bring the National Capital Region together to celebrate the best U18 women’s hockey in Canada. For our U18AA 67’s, the opportunity to represent Ottawa and compete for a national championship at home will be incredibly special.”
“The OWHA is thrilled to partner with the Ottawa Girls Hockey Association to bring the Esso Cup to Ottawa,” said Fran Rider, president of the Ontario Women’s Hockey Association. “A sincere thanks to Esso for its ongoing support of girls’ and women’s hockey, and we look forward to showcasing the excellence of the game while growing opportunities for future generations in Ottawa and beyond.”
Each team will play five preliminary-round games in the tournament. The top four clubs will advance to the semifinals, with the medal games scheduled for April 24.
Teams from Ontario have won the gold medal five times since 2009; the Durham West Lightning and Stoney Creek Sabres previously won back-to-back gold medals in 2022 and 2023. The Ottawa 67’s will be looking to become the first host team to win gold on home ice next April.
Schedule and ticket information for the 2027 Esso Cup will be available at a later date. Fans can stay up to date by signing up to become a Hockey Canada Insider.
For more information on Hockey Canada and the Esso Cup, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.