NHL & Ball Hockey

Many hockey players use ball hockey as a fun and effective off-ice training activity during the summer. It’s a strong crossover sport that complements ice hockey skills.

In the 2009 season, the SBHL welcomed nine Western Hockey League players into our men’s summer league, including:

  • Derek Hulak, Captain, Saskatoon Blades, WHL
  • Garret Zemlak, Prince Albert Raiders, WHL
  • Andy Smith, Chilliwack Bruins, WHL
  • Brennan Bosch, Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL
  • Ryan Holfeld, Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL
  • Jared Jagow, Prince Albert Raiders, WHL
  • Cody Smuk, Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL
  • Kyle Ireland, Swift Current Broncos, WHL
  • Carson Schell, Nanaimo Clippers, BCHL
NHL Players

Legends such as Joe Thornton, Steve Yzerman, and Joe Sakic are just a few of the NHL stars who have played in organized CBHA ball hockey leagues. 

Below is a list of NHL players who have participated in member leagues of the Canadian Ball Hockey Association (CBHA). Each profile includes details about when and where they played, along with their NHL career information.

DBHL Wall of Fame

Many hockey players choose ball hockey as a fun and effective off-ice conditioning activity during the summer, as it serves as an excellent crossover sport with ice hockey. 

Our leagues have welcomed numerous elite players from the NHL, AHL, WHL, CIS, and NCAA. The success of our athletes extends beyond the rink, with several also competing at the highest level of ball hockey — the World Ball Hockey Championships. Among our returning players and alumni are:

 Josh Harding

 Minnesota Wild (NHL)

 Keegan Dansereau

 Binghamton Senators (AHL)

 Dustin Cameron

 Saskatoon/P.A (WHL)

 Braden Holtby

 Washington Capitals (NHL)

 Gaelan Patterson

 Abbotsford Heat (AHL)

 Dominick Favreau

 Brandon/Regina (WHL)

 Luke Schenn

 Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)

 Garret Zemlak

 Ontario Reign (ECHL)