Hockey in Standoff is getting a big boost. The new Blood Tribe Twin Rinks opens on August 14, 2026, and the celebration comes with a high-stakes tournament. The inaugural Blood Tribe Cup Open Hockey Tournament kicks off the same day, offering a total of $10,000 in cash prizes across its three events.
The grand opening runs from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and the tournament will continue through August 16. The men’s open division, for players 18 and older, has room for 12 teams and a $5,000 championship prize. The women’s open division, for players 16 and older, can take up to 8 teams and carries a $3,000 prize. There is also a $1,000 shootout challenge, with a winner-take-all format for both the men’s and women’s sides.
Getting a team on the ice costs $1,500. That fee covers a three-game guarantee, round-robin play, championship playoffs, and certified officials and timekeepers. Teams interested can sign up by emailing [email protected] or calling (403)-849-0005.
The new twin-pad arena adds to the recreation options on the Blood Reserve. The Blood Tribe Recreation and Parks Department already manages facilities like the Kainai Sports Centre and the Multi-Purpose Building. Having a second ice surface is expected to offer more ice time for minor hockey, adult leagues, and community skates.
Hockey has deep roots in the community. The Kainai Chiefs won several provincial titles while coached by Jim Goodstriker from 1967 to 1985. A community petition is now seeking to name the new rink after Goodstriker, who was also a respected sports reporter and photographer. Interest in the game remains strong: in April 2026, Calgary Flames defenseman Zach Whitecloud visited the Kainai Sportsplex Arena to meet and inspire young players. Now, with a shiny new rink and a cash tournament on opening weekend, the next chapter of Blood Tribe hockey is ready to begin.
