2026 Crowchild Classic: Essential Information You Need to Know
The 2026 Crowchild Classic is set to ignite fierce competition between the University of Calgary Dinos and the Mount Royal University Cougars. This highly anticipated event will take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome, featuring both women’s and men’s hockey games. The women’s match will kick off at 4:30 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 7:30 p.m. With tickets rapidly selling out, an electrifying atmosphere is expected, bringing together passionate fans from both universities.
Event Overview
The Crowchild Classic is more than just a sporting event; it represents a longstanding rivalry. This year, both Dinos teams are performing well in the Canada West standings. However, they will face substantial challenges as they go head-to-head against the MRU Cougars.
Women’s Hockey Matchup
- Dinos Women’s Standing: Currently second in the East Division and third overall in Canada West with 30 points.
- Cougars Women’s Standing: Leading their division with 37 points.
- Season Performance: The Dinos have a record of 1-2-1 against the Cougars this season.
- Key Players:
- Amelia Awad – Notable goaltender with a .953 save percentage.
- Maisie Cope – Freshman goaltender who set a record for most saves in a game.
- Sydney Mercier – Leading scorer for Cougars with 16 points.
- Defensive Challenges: Calgary’s penalty kill is the lowest in the East (82%), despite solid offense.
Men’s Hockey Matchup
- Dinos Men’s Standing: Currently at the top of the East Division, with a 9-11-2 record in this rivalry over the past five years.
- Season Record Against Cougars: 2-2-0.
- Key Players:
- Adam Kydd – Team captain leading Canada West scoring with 37 points.
- Carl Stankowski – Goalie with a .909 save percentage and 2.24 goals-against average.
- Special Teams: The Dinos’ power play operates at nearly 30%, providing a significant advantage.
Historical Context
Historically, the Dinos and Cougars have a competitive rivalry. The all-time Crowchild Classic series records show a 7-3-2 advantage for the Cougars, including their recent three-year streak from 2022 to 2023. This year’s matchup is critical as both the Dinos and Cougars look to assert their dominance.
Looking Forward
The stakes are high as both teams prepare for the Crowchild Classic. Upcoming encounters in basketball and volleyball will also add to the rivalry’s excitement. The Dinos will have an opportunity to showcase their prowess in various sports beyond hockey, ensuring that the battle for supremacy continues.
As fans gear up for this thrilling event, the teams are prepared to leave their mark on the Crowchild Classic. Whether on the ice or in the arena, the rivalry will certainly provide unforgettable moments for both schools.
