The Markham-Stouffville Stars Girls U13 AA team is set to take part in the 2026 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament. This will be a historic moment as it’s the first time a girls’ team from Markham-Stouffville has qualified for this renowned international competition. This year, only 12 girls’ teams were accepted, and the Stars are the sole representative from Ontario. Established in 1960, the Quebec tournament has showcased future NHL legends like Wayne Gretzky and Auston Matthews. To support their journey, the team is raising funds through Go Fund Me to cover travel and tournament costs. Coach Scotty Howes urged local businesses and community members to help make this trip happen. When the puck drops in Quebec City next February, the Markham-Stouffville Stars Girls U13 AA squad will create history for their organization. From February 11 to 22, 2026, they will compete in the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament. As one of the largest and most prestigious youth hockey events globally, this marks a significant achievement for a Markham-Stouffville girls’ team on its legendary ice. The Quebec tournament attracts over 115 teams from around the world each year. In 2024 alone, participants hailed from 18 different countries, earning acclaim throughout the hockey community. NHL. com refers to it as “the premier youth hockey event in Canada,” while the Atlantic Hockey Federation calls it “legendary,” highlighting “some of the top talent in the world.” This year, only 12 girls’ teams secured spots in the 2026 series. The Markham-Stouffville Stars U13 AA are proud to be Ontario’s lone representative after being chosen from over 40 applicants. Four teams from Quebec received automatic entry, with two slots reserved for European clubs, making it highly competitive. “This is a historic moment for our organization and these sixteen girls,” stated Head Coach Scotty Howes. “Being selected as the only girls’ team from Ontario to compete at this level is an incredible honour. Our players have worked extremely hard to get here, and they’ve earned their chance to represent Markham-Stouffville, the GTA, and Ontario on one of hockey’s biggest youth stages.” The Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament was founded by Gérard Bolduc in 1960 and has long provided an opportunity for young athletes to showcase their skills at high levels of play. Its alumni list includes stars like Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Auston Matthews-names that highlight its esteemed reputation and role in shaping future champions. For Howes, being selected serves as both validation and inspiration. “When we submitted our application, we knew competition would be tough,” he shared. “To be picked from over 40 applicants shows how strong these girls are playing right now. They’ve proven themselves all season long; this selection confirms their commitment to improvement.” In preparation for what’s ahead, the Stars will focus on skill development and building team dynamics while also facing another challenge: raising funds needed for travel expenses. The team has started a Go Fund Me campaign aimed at helping with travel costs related to accommodation and participation fees-expenses that can weigh heavily on families involved. They’re looking for support from locals and businesses alike so that this incredible opportunity can become a reality for both players and their community. “We’re asking our community to help make this dream possible,” Howes remarked. “Any form of support-be it donations or sponsorships from local businesses or just spreading awareness about our story-makes a real difference for these girls who will proudly wear Markham-Stouffville across their chests come February.” If you’d like to contribute towards reaching their $4,500 fundraising goal supporting The Stars’ efforts through Go Fund Me can be done via their page link provided above. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities or donations should reach out directly to team manager Julie Rose at (416) 319-8559. “Every contribution helps us get these girls safely into Quebec City so they can concentrate on what matters most-playing hockey,” House continued. “Our players are set to compete against some of best U13 talent globally which promises experiences that’ll stay with them forever while pushing them elevate game further.” Cover image provided by & used with permission from Markham-Stouffville Stars Girls U13 AA team.
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