Camrose, AB: One of Canada's most prestigious international hockey tournaments is making its triumphant return. After nearly 20 years, the Viking Cup is back at the Encana Arena in Camrose, Alberta, from December 27, 2025 to January 4, 2026. 

A cornerstone of Camrose's sporting history, the Viking Cup ran from 1980 to 2006, drawing elite University, College, Junior, and U18 National teams from across Europe and North America. The tournament served as a scouting ground for NHL talent and a celebration of international friendship. 

More than 400 tournament alumni went on to be selected in NHL drafts, with names like Dominik Hašek, Henrik Lundqvist, Joe Pavelski, and Patrik Eliáš among our tournament alumni. 

"The Viking Cup was my first experience in North America...it was gold to us." Dominek Hasek, IIHF & NHL Hall of Fame, Stanley Cup winner. 

Now, the tournament is being revived and reimagined by the Augustana Vikings Hockey Alumni Association, a non-profit dedicated to preserving and growing the legacy of Vikings Hockey and the Viking Cup. 

"The Viking Cup is more than just a hockey tournament, it's a celebration of our history, our community, and the global game of hockey," said Leroy Johnson, (Viking Cup Coordinator) "We're proud to bring this world-class event back to Camrose and welcome the next generation of hockey stars." 

All proceeds from the tournament will go to the Augustana Vikings Hockey Alumni Association to support future Viking Cups and the continued success of Vikings Hockey. 

Community Focus & Cultural Legacy 

From its inception, the Viking Cup has been a cultural and educational experience drawing thousands of spectators and creating life-changing opportunities for young athletes, many of whom have gone on to professional hockey careers around the world. 

The 2025 revival not only honors that history but adapts it for a modern hockey landscape, with an emphasis on international university-level competition and community involvement. 

This year's Viking Cup is designed to be a family-friendly and affordable experience, making it easy for local residents to enjoy international hockey right in their own backyard. With accessible pricing, convenient ticket options, and a welcoming tournament atmosphere, the event offers a unique opportunity for families, youth, and hockey fans of all ages to witness world-class competition and cheer on local and international teams together. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the Viking Cup promises an unforgettable winter outing for the whole community. 

The tournament's return was made possible by a committee established in 2022, whose vision and dedication engaged collegiate teams from across the globe and rebuilt partnerships locally and internationally. This year's Viking Cup was made possible with a Major Sport Event grant from Alberta Government and generous community sponsorship. 

"The atmosphere at the Viking Cup was incredible. It was so lively and so much fun. It made a big impression on me." Dave Tippett, former NHL Player and Coach 

The 2025 Viking Cup: Details 

Dates: December 27, 2025 – January 4, 2026 

Venue: Encana Arena, Camrose, Alberta  

Teams (5): 

1. Czechia University Selects (Czechia, EU) 
2. SAIT Trojans (Calgary, AB) 
3. U20 SJHL All-Stars (Saskatchewan) 
4. Augustana Vikings (Camrose, AB) 
5. Midland University Warriors (Fremont, Nebraska, USA - ACHA) 

Across 8 days and 13 games, international and local teams will showcase elite-level competition, sportsmanship, and cross-cultural exchange, all within the spirit of community and camaraderie that defined the original Viking Cup. 

The 2025 Viking Cup: Ticketing 

Full event packages are currently are now available to be purchased at https://vikingcup.ca/tickets. Adult and student pricing options are available. Children under 7 years old can attend for free but are still be required to get a ticket from the website. Single game tickets will be available closer to the event and will be available: 

Online (https://vikingcup.ca/tickets)  tickets vikingcup.com 

The event is proudly supported by: 

The Government of Alberta, Hockey Alberta and  The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC).

Media Contact: 
Joren Johnson 
Viking Cup Assistant Coordinator 
Email: jorenmjohnson@gmail.com
Phone: 250-304-9943