
The Western Hockey League confirmed today that the Penticton Vees have been accepted as the league’s 23rd franchise and will begin play in the 2025/26 season. The Vees are the first expansion team in nearly two decades in the WHL, as the last expansion franchise was granted in 2006.
The Vees junior hockey organization has a long history in Penticton, dating back to the creation of the Okanagan-Mainline Junior Hockey League in 1961. The Vees seniors men’s team won the 1955 World Hockey championships.
“For fans, this is going to be an opportunity to see up-close some of the most talented players in the country,” says Bloomfield. “It will also create significant economic activity for the community throughout the entire year. We want to thank the WHL and the Vees organization for seeing the potential in Penticton to make this happen.”
The estimated economic impact of a WHL franchise, for a mid-market team, is approximately $7.9 million in direct impact and $14.9 million in indirect impact. The Vees will continue to play out of the 5,000 seat South Okanagan Events Centre.
“It’s a very exciting time for our community and Penticton Vees hockey team,” says owner Graham Fraser. “We feel the city and hockey team are ready to take the next steps and join the WHL. With our coach, staff and partners we will be in a great place to have continued success. Additionally, I would like to thank our ownership group of Mark Scheifele, Mike Richter, Joe Walters, and Gord Kovacik for their support in making this a reality.”
“This is a monumental moment in our franchise’s history,” says Head Coach, Fred Harbinson. “Starting as an iconic senior team in the 1950’s, to being a premier Junior ‘A’ for the past 65 years. The move to the WHL is the next chapter in the legacy of hockey in Penticton.”
Tickets for the 2025/26 season go on sale soon. For more information, visit penticton.ca/vees.