Now in its third year, the expanded two-day event at the North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex will spotlight two LGBTQ+ hockey associations leading the way in the Pacific Northwest. In the three-game series, each organization will receive a $25,000 donation to support their continued impact on the community.
“The Cutting Edges are honored to be part of the NHL Unites Pride Cup, along with great partners like Seattle Pride Hockey Association, the NHL and Pride Tape,” said Kyle McCarthychairman of The Cutting Edges. “This is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate what hockey is about, the community.”
“The NHL Unites Pride Cup is about more than hockey – it’s about visibility, belonging and showing LGBTQ+ players and fans that this sport is for them,” said Steven Thompsonpresident of the Seattle Pride Hockey Association. “We are incredibly proud to share the ice with the Vancouver Cutting Edges and are grateful to the NHL for continuing to invest in community-based inclusion. Moments like these help shape the future of hockey into a future that truly welcomes all.”
More than 40 players will participate alongside special guests. Competition partner, the You can play a project will host an educational session for local coaches to help support an arena environment where LGBTQ+ athletes can play as their authentic selves. While Pride Tape’s Jeff McLean And Dean Petrukwho just celebrated the company’s 10th anniversary, will be on hand to continue their mission of promoting diversity, equality and inclusion through sports.
“Since the first Pride Cup, we have seen hockey communities across the League come together to create a welcoming, respectful experience for everyone who loves the game,” said Kim DavisNHL Senior Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives and Legislative Affairs. “At its best, hockey brings people together and fosters inclusive environments for all who play and love the sport. Our Pride initiatives are one of the many ways we continue to deliver on this commitment.”
The 2026 NHL Unites Pride Cup is part of a long-standing commitment by the NHL to support LGBTQ+ hockey organizations and host celebrations of authenticity, including the inaugural NHL All-Star Pride Cup during the 2024 NHL All-Star Weekend in Toronto and the NHL Pride Cup 2025 during 4-nation Face-Off in Boston.
2026 NHL Unites Pride Cup Schedule
All games are free and located at the North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex (10950 126a St, Surrey, BC V3V 0E5) and are also open to the media and public. Capacity is limited.
Saturday February 28
11:45 AM PT: Game 1
Vancouver Cutting Edges vs. Seattle Pride Hockey Association
4:30 PM PT: Game 2
Vancouver Cutting Edges vs. Seattle Pride Hockey Association
Sunday March 1
1:30 PM PT: Coaches train with You Can Play Project
Registration required HERE
3:30 PM PT: Game 3
Vancouver Cutting Edges vs. Seattle Pride Hockey Association
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