Kootenay Ice

The Kootenay Ice was a junior ice hockey team based in Cranbrook, British Columbia, part of the Western Hockey League (WHL), a major junior league in North America. Founded in 1996, they developed young players aged 16-20, many of whom advanced to professional leagues including the NHL. The team was known for fostering local talent and competitive play but faced challenges with attendance and financial sustainability. In 2019, the franchise relocated to Winnipeg and became the Winnipeg Ice, continuing its participation in the WHL under a new name.