Edmonton, AB / Bellingham, WA — The Junior Prospects Hockey League (JPHL) is proud to officially announce the addition of Bellingham Hockey Club (Bellingham HC) as a 17U AAA Hub beginning in the 2026–27 season (SZN5).
Operating out of Bellingham, Washington (USA), Bellingham HC will mark the league’s first formal step into the United States and represents the beginning phase of a broader southern expansion strategy.
The Bellingham HC Hub will be operated by Vic Pereira and his leadership group, who bring strong organizational leadership, community relationships, and a shared vision aligned with the JPHL’s athlete-centric model.
A Strategic Step into the United States
“This is an exciting and very intentional step for our league,” said Richard Nault, Commissioner of the JPHL. “Bellingham HC represents the first phase of our U.S. expansion. We have been deliberate in our approach, ensuring that growth is responsible, sustainable, and aligned with the standards that define the JPHL brand.”
Commissioner Nault emphasized that expansion into Washington State is not about rapid growth, but structured and staged development.
“We are entering SZN5 in 2026–27, and with each season, the quality within our league continues to rise — on the ice, behind the bench, and operationally across all Hubs. Our focus remains on responsible growth. We are building infrastructure, systems, and partnerships that allow us to deliver a unique and elevated hockey experience for every athlete and family within the JPHL.”
Building the Modern Hockey Pathway
The addition of Bellingham HC further strengthens the JPHL’s cross-border footprint and enhances competition within the 17U AAA division. The league’s vertically integrated model continues to connect athletes with junior, collegiate, and professional pathways while maintaining a strong emphasis on development, structure, and professionalism.
“Vic Pereira and his leadership group understand what we are building,” added Nault. “They share our commitment to culture, accountability, and long-term sustainability. We are confident that Bellingham HC will be a tremendous addition to our league.”
Staged Growth, Elevated Experience
As the JPHL prepares for SZN5, the league continues to evaluate additional strategic markets across Canada and the United States. However, expansion will remain phased.
“More growth is coming,” said Nault. “But it will be staged. Our priority is ensuring our league infrastructure keeps pace with expansion — whether that’s operations, officiating, scheduling, events, or athlete services. We are building something meaningful and lasting.”
The 2026–27 season will mark a milestone year for the JPHL as it continues to solidify its position as one of North America’s premier independent AAA development leagues.
About the JPHL
The Junior Prospects Hockey League (JPHL) is an AAA hockey league committed to delivering a modern, athlete-focused development model. Entering its fifth season in 2026–27, the league already has over 50 teams in its’ membership and continues to expand responsibly while elevating standards in competition, operations, and player advancement opportunities across North America.
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