The Alberta Junior Female Hockey League continues to see its member teams invest in meaningful, high-performance development opportunities and this winter, the Edmonton Wolves are taking that commitment onto the international stage.
From December 27 to January 5, the Wolves will embark on a European exhibition tour designed to challenge athletes through elite international competition while broadening their exposure to different styles of women’s hockey. The tour reflects the AJFHL’s broader focus on preparing athletes for the next level by providing experiences that extend beyond traditional league play.
During the trip, Wolves athletes will compete against HIFK U20 in Finland, followed by games in Sweden against Järna SK of the NDL and Brynäs IF U20. These matchups will test players against European pace, structure, and tactical systems, encouraging adaptability and hockey intelligence — skills that are increasingly important in today’s global game.
From a league perspective, opportunities like this highlight the depth and quality of development taking place within the AJFHL. Exposure to international coaching philosophies, training environments, and game management concepts allows athletes to benchmark themselves against global standards while bringing valuable experience back to league competition.
The tour also strengthens the AJFHL’s presence beyond Canada. By building relationships with European clubs and organizations, the Edmonton Wolves are helping showcase the calibre of female hockey development occurring across Alberta, reinforcing the league’s reputation as a pathway for athletes pursuing collegiate, professional, and international opportunities.
“This trip is about accelerating development and broadening perspective,” said Wolves Head Coach and General Manager Bryan Toles. “Our players will be challenged on the ice and gain exposure to how the game is played and developed internationally, which is invaluable for their long-term growth.”
As AJFHL teams continue to seek innovative ways to support athlete growth, the Edmonton Wolves’ European tour stands as a strong example of how league programs are investing in experiences that elevate players, teams, and the league as a whole — both at home and on the global stage.