"The BC Hockey League (BCHL) has announced that five Alberta-based teams have signed franchise agreements and are now officially members of the league, as of yesterday.
Prior to this, the teams had agreed to terms on a framework of what joining the BCHL would look like.
Effective immediately, the Blackfalds Bulldogs, Brooks Bandits, Okotoks Oilers, Sherwood Park Crusaders and Spruce Grove Saints are members of the BCHL.
"We are pleased to officially welcome these five franchises into the fold as members of our league," said Chris Hebb, Chief Executive Officer of the BCHL. "All five are strong organizations from great communities and we look forward to the immediate boost they will give our league. We were encouraged by their belief in our model and think that adding these teams will strengthen the development of all our players."