For the first time in a decade, the league will crown a new champion. The Vermilion Tigers eliminated the defending champion Wainwright Bisons in five games, ending Wainwright’s long run at the top and ensuring a different team will lift the title for the first time since 2015.

After dropping the series opener 4–0, Vermilion responded with four straight wins to take control of the matchup and close out the series. The Tigers won Game 2 (4–2), Game 3 (6–2), Game 4 (6–2) and sealed the series with a 4–2 victory in Game 5 at Vermilion Stadium.

The result ends Wainwright’s championship era and opens the door for a new team to claim the league crown this season.

Vermilion players earn major league honours

The Tigers’ strong season has also been reflected in the league’s individual awards.

Danny Haygarth was named Coach of the Year, recognizing the leadership behind Vermilion’s success this season.

Defenceman Ean Cooke earned the Best Defenceman award for the 2025–2026 campaign.

Forward Cade Meiklejohn captured two major honours, being named League MVP while also finishing as the Top Goal Scorer with 40 goals during the regular season.

 

 

Canadiens and Wheat Kings also recognized

Elsewhere in the league, St. Paul Canadiens forward Quinn Szpak won the league scoring title, finishing the season with 32 goals and 37 assists for 69 points.

The Rookie of the Year award went to Ethan Allen of the Killam Wheat Kings, who made an immediate impact in his first season.

Championship race now wide open

With Wainwright knocked out, the path to the championship is now wide open.

The Vermilion Tigers will advance to the league final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal between the Lloydminster Bandits and the Killam Wheat Kings. That series has been tightly contested and could require Game 7, scheduled for March 11 at the Cenovus Energy Hub in Lloydminster if needed.

The winner of that matchup will move on to face Vermilion for the league championship.