It’s been nine years since the Sherwood Park Crusaders have played a game in Fort Saskatchewan. The AJHL’s Fort Saskatchewan Traders called the Jubilee Recreation Centre home for 31 Years before moving to St. Albert and ultimately becoming the now Whitecourt Wolverines.
The AJHL makes it's return to Fort Saskatchewan Sunday afternoon at 2:30 PM as the Crusaders host the Lloydminster Bobcats at the JRC.
Much like the current rivalries for the Crusaders between Spruce Grove and Bonnyville, Sherwood Park and Fort Saskatchewan many times in the Post Season through the 80’s and early 90’s.
The Traders and the Crusaders clashed eight times in the AJHL Playoffs and split with four series victory each, Sherwood Park had three consecutive Playoff series victories over Fort Saskatchewan from 1985 to 1987.
Both franchises as well combined for five league championship appearances from 1979 to 1989, with the Traders capturing the AJHL title in 1979 and 1984, the Crusaders appeared in the league final back to back years in 1985 and 1986.
Notable Traders alumni include former NHL’ers Dave Babych, Jim Benning, Sheldon Souray, Mike Commodore, Taylor Fedun and Matt Frattin to name a few. As well, former Crusader Shannon Szabados was in the crease for the Traders final season in Fort Saskatchewan.
It should be an exciting afternoon of hockey on Sunday as the Crusaders and Lloydminster Bobcats look to entertain the City of Fort Saskatchewan with some excellent Alberta Junior League Hockey, like it was years ago at the JRC.