World Champions! U.S. Wins Gold at 2026 Girls U17 World Championship - USA Volleyball

A rookie defenceman who will forever be part of Penticton Vees history has made Canada’s U17 World Challenge roster. Thor Liffiton, the WHL franchise’s first-ever draft selection, is one of 44 players set to play for one of the nation’s two squads at the tournament, set for Oakville, Ont., from Nov. 1 to 7.

“He’s doing a really good job as he’s continuing to navigate through there, and again, he’s a player who comes to the rink excited every single day. Like, I don’t think I ever see him not smiling; he loves being here, loves getting to work. He’s an extreme competitor anytime he’s on the ice, and I’m really looking forward to seeing him pull the Canadian jersey over his shoulders and get to work.” For the last two tournaments, the Raiders have been represented on at least one of the Team Canada teams playing in the tournament. In 2024, it was Riley Boychuk and Daxon Rudolph who won gold with Team Canada White, and last year Ben Harvey won silver with Team Canada White while Brock Cripps won gold with Team Canada Red. McDonald has seen first-hand how this tournament has affected players upon their return, and he hopes Shingoose follows that example once he returns. “I thought our guys did a tremendous job last year when they were there. Ultimately, Brock was with me on my side and Benny was on the other side, but you just watched how they both played and how they represented their country extremely well, and the same thing for Gooser.

Hockey Canada announced today that Petes first-year forward Landon Roulston has been named to the Canada Red roster for the upcoming World U17 Challenge in Oakville. “We’re very excited for Landon,” noted Petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations, Michael Oke.” This is a great chance for him to play with and against some of the top U17 talent in the world. Landon has worked very hard, both on and off the ice, to earn this opportunity. We’re looking forward to watching him play and know that this experience will be very beneficial for him moving forward.”

The schedule for the 2026 World U17 Hockey Challenge in Oakville, ON. has been announced. The tournament will begin on Nov. 1 with the final set for Nov. 7. All games will be played at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex.