Third annual NHL Unity Pride Cup kicks off in Surrey
Published 3:20 pm Saturday, February 28, 2026
The third annual NHL Unity Pride Cup kicked off in Surrey Saturday (Feb. 28).
Vancouver’s Cutting Edge is facing off against the Seattle Pride Hockey Association during the two-day event, with teams competing for the Pride Cup.
Kade Lacasse, forward for The Cutting Edges, said, “Driving out here today, it reminds you of when you used to play big games as a kid.”
“It’s really special for the players who didn’t experience that as kids to get to have that feeling, to have the announcer, the music and have the big stage, it feels nice. It’s beautiful to see that the NHL is putting money into these events and they are showing us that we belong, we should play and we deserve the recognition.”
The three-game series will see each organization receive a $25,000 donation, according to a news release sent by the National Hockey League, which partners with Pride Tape to hold NHL Unites Pride Cup.
In Surrey, more than 40 players will participate alongside special guests including Pride Tape’s Jeff McLean and Dean Petruk, who recently celebrated the venture’s 10th anniversary. They’ll be there to continue their mission of promoting diversity, equality and inclusion through sport.
The final face-off will be Sunday (March 1) at North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex (10950 126a St). Admission is free, and there is a fan zone where spectators can learn about different LGBTQ+ hockey organizations.
Vancouver Queer comedian Breanne Williamson opened up the tournament Saturday (Feb. 28).
“Spare me for my jokes right now, because I know we have a game to play, but I am so excited to be here today as a lesbian woman who happens to have a partner who loves to play hockey. I know that not only do LGBTQ+ folks play hockey, but they’re darn good at it too,” Williamson said.
Kim Davis, NHL Senior EVP of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives & Legislative Affairs, addressed the hockey players and said that the league sees them and the hard work each has put in to create a more inclusive and safe space.
“We know we have so much more to do, and we want to do it together with you,” Davis said.
The Pride Cup is part of “a longstanding commitment from the NHL to support LGBTQ+ hockey organizations and to host celebrations of authenticity,” noted the NHL news release.
-With files from Tom Zillich
About the Author: Anna Burns
I cover breaking news, health care, court, Vancouver Rise FC, Vancouver Goldeneyes and social issues-related topics for the Surrey Now-Leader. anna.burns@surreynowleader.com Follow Anna on Twitter.