Nova Scotia Buzz
Hockey Canada has announced that Halifax and Moncton have been awarded the 2023 World Junior Hockey Championship.
A decision to withdraw the event from Russia was made by the IIHF on Tuesday, April 26 in Zurich, Switzerland. The tournament was scheduled to take place in St. Petersburg, Russia from May 5-21, 2023.
“Nova Scotia is thrilled to be selected to host the 2023 World Juniors, which will be the best tournament to date,” said Premier Tim Houston. “We are ready to roll out the welcome mat for the teams, their families and visiting fans – and I’ll be in the arena with thousands of Nova Scotians, cheering at each and every game.”
The IIHF says the decision to relocate the event was taken primarily out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans.
“Halifax is a hockey town and so is Moncton. Hosting the World Juniors will help our region rebound from the pandemic, celebrate our passion for the game and inspire the next generation of hockey players in our region.” said Mike Savage, Mayor of Halifax Regional Municipality.
The tournament will be played December 26, 2022 to January 5, 2023 at the Scotiabank Centre and Avenir Centre.
“This is a big win for the Maritimes and our fans.” said Brian Urquhart, Halifax Mooseheads President. “I am thrilled for those fans who have been there to support junior hockey since day one and will be given the opportunity to watch the best players in the world hit the ice at the Scotiabank Centre and Avenir Centre this December.”
Nova Scotia last hosted the World Júnior Championship in 2003 with Halifax and Sydney sharing hosting duties.
