Language

Google Translate Disclaimer

A number of pages on the Government of Saskatchewan's website have been professionally translated in French. These translations are identified by a yellow box in the right or left rail that resembles the link below. The home page for French-language content on this site can be found at:

Renseignements en Français

Where an official translation is not available, Google™ Translate can be used. Google™ Translate is a free online language translation service that can translate text and web pages into different languages. Translations are made available to increase access to Government of Saskatchewan content for populations whose first language is not English.

Software-based translations do not approach the fluency of a native speaker or possess the skill of a professional translator. The translation should not be considered exact, and may include incorrect or offensive language. The Government of Saskatchewan does not warrant the accuracy, reliability or timeliness of any information translated by this system. Some files or items cannot be translated, including graphs, photos and other file formats such as portable document formats (PDFs).

Any person or entities that rely on information obtained from the system does so at his or her own risk. Government of Saskatchewan is not responsible for any damage or issues that may possibly result from using translated website content. If you have any questions about Google™ Translate, please visit: Google™ Translate FAQs.

Saskatchewan Stands with Canadian and Western Hockey Leagues Against American Lawsuit

Released on April 30, 2026

Saskatchewan is taking a stand for the CHL and WHL as part of an ongoing legal dispute. 

In 2024, the World Association of Icehockey Players Unions brought a class action in the Southern District of New York against the CHL and its constituent hockey leagues, including the WHL. All Saskatchewan WHL teams are named as defendants. The lawsuit was dismissed in New York, re-filed in the Western District of Washington, and dismissed again on the grounds that the court lacked jurisdiction over Canadian major junior hockey. The plaintiffs have now appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

"We believe the District Court was correct to decline to exercise jurisdiction over Canadian major junior hockey, which involves primarily Canadian leagues, Canadian teams, and Canadian players," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. "Saskatchewan will continue to protect the ability of the WHL and the CHL to conduct their business in Canada without interference from foreign jurisdictions."

Saskatchewan has, in partnership with British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba, filed a legal response in support of WHL and CHL's position that argues the limits of U.S. jurisdiction over Canadian hockey, emphasizes the importance of major junior hockey to Canadians, and outlines the responsibility of Canadian governments to regulate major junior hockey in Canada.

"For many years, Saskatchewan has been supportive of the five WHL Clubs operating in the Province, three of which are community-owned franchises," WHL Commissioner Dan Near said. "We are thankful for the Province's leadership and support on this matter, and the role our Clubs play in galvanizing communities throughout Saskatchewan." 

The western Canadian provinces, including Saskatchewan, are represented by Holland and Knight LLP in the United States. 

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit is expected to make a decision after hearing the parties' arguments. 

-30-

Noel Busse
Justice and Attorney General
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8959
Email: jumedia@gov.sk.ca

We need your feedback to improve saskatchewan.ca. Help us improve