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In recent years, Canada is a true hockey powerhouse. From the outdoor fields of P.E.I. to the snow-capped mountains of B.C., much of Canada’s identity has been shaped around the game of hockey. A big part of this is the sheer number of hockey teams playing at various levels throughout the country.

When you look at the numbers, the sheer amount of teams across Canada is quite impressive. Nationally, there are over 20 leagues and organizations that offer different levels of hockey such as minor, junior, college, and professional. These leagues are then further split into panels that make up thousands of individual teams.

With the abundance of teams, communities from coast to coast are able to enjoy hockey on all levels. Locally, teams become something to rally around and provide tremendous support for the community. People can tune into the radio, television, or come out to their local rink to support their team.

The benefits of having many hockey teams go beyond providing a great source of entertainment. It helps create a sense of pride and spirit in each community, and often provides invaluable economic development opportunities. Hockey clubs often partner with local restaurants, media, and businesses around the area to grow the sport into a profitable venture. Hockey teams also need volunteers, coaches, and part-time staff to keep everything running smoothly.

For those looking to take part in the sport, having more teams also provides more accessibility and opportunities. It’s great for someone who may be just starting out, as they can have more choice in where to play, and the chances to compete with other teams increases. It also allows for different types of league structures, such as age-based divisions and travel teams, for those whose skill may have moved beyond their local area.

It’s clear that having many hockey teams across Canada is a positive thing for everyone involved in the sport. It adds to the strong sense of Canadian identity, and provides a great way for people to come together to support their local teams. For those looking to develop their skills, have more choice, or just to enjoy the great sport of hockey, the abundance of teams makes Canada a great place to be.