CAN welcomes over 200 players across BC for adapted tournament

This past Saturday, March 28, we hosted the 2026 Canucks Autism Network (CAN) Adapted Hockey Tournament at the Surrey Sport and Leisure Complex.

Proudly supported by the Canucks for Kids Fund, the tournament brought together adapted hockey teams from across the province for a day of friendly competition, community spirit, and celebration of sport for all.

Hosting the annual tournament for the third time, CAN welcomed over 200 athletes representing 14 adapted hockey teams from communities across the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, and Interior regions. Participants of all ages and abilities took to the ice in a supportive, inclusive environment that embodies CAN’s commitment to accessibility and belonging.

“With the support of the Canucks for Kids Fund, we were thrilled to bring together teams from across the province for a showcase of skill, passion, and fun,” said Canucks Autism Network CEO, Britt Andersen.

“This event highlights the power of adapted sport to foster friendships, build confidence, and ensure every individual feels like a valued part of our hockey community.”

CAN CEO Britt Andersen, Surrey-Guildford MLA Garry Begg, anthem singer Jayden Rudge, and Canucks mascot FIN during the opening ceremonies
Coach Neesh with a member of the CAN Surrey Stingrays

The tournament featured junior and senior teams from the Central Okanagan Wild and Wildcats, Chilliwack Little Heroes, Coquitlam Sharks, Kamloops Blazers, South Island Ravens, Surrey Stingrays, Vancouver Orcas, Vancouver Island Vision, and Vernon Score Hawks.

Each team represents local efforts from a range of community organizations to expand access to hockey for children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum and those with developmental or intellectual disabilities, reinforcing the message that hockey is for everyone.

The day began with Opening Ceremonies featuring Vancouver Canucks mascot FIN, who welcomed each team onto the ice, as well as remarks from Garry Begg, MLA for Surrey-Guildford. Meanwhile, the Surrey Fire Fighters served a BBQ and played in a feature game against the Tournament All-Stars.

A team of Surrey Fire Fighters, CAN staff and volunteers suited up against the tournament all-stars to close out the day
Members of the Little Heroes Academy from Chilliwack hanging out in the lobby where players could enjoy a photo booth from YVR, cotton candy from the Candy Curio, and a BBQ from the Surrey Fire Fighters.

Througout the day, the tournament featured not only spirited matchups, but community connection, celebration of participant achievements, and visibility for adapted sport programs throughout British Columbia.

For many athletes, coaches, families, and supporters, the event served as the highlight of their hockey season — an opportunity to shine, compete, and connect in an inclusive setting.

For more information about the 2026 CAN Adapted Hockey Tournament, please visit canucksautism.ca/tournament.

More stories

“People at CAN get me, and I get them.”

Five hundred thousand thanks for Bob Shanks!

Levonne & Maddox: “Growing with the CAN family”