The Western Hockey League (WHL) is a Major Junior Hockey League based out of Canada (although some teams reside in the United States). The WHL is one of three Major Junior Hockey Leagues which comprise the Canadian Hockey League (CHL). The other two leagues are the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
22 teams comprise the WHL which is broken down into two conferences and four divisions. The league champion of the WHL participates in the Memorial Cup which is made up of the three CHL champions and the host team.
The WHL has produced hundreds of current and former National Hockey League (NHL) players. 6 players were drafted in the 1st Round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
The WHL Bantam is held every year to draft some of the best 14 and 15 year old hockey players in Canada and the United States (some from overseas). These players are among the best youth hockey prospects in the world and many have high-end professional potential. Players drafted in the WHL are not considered amateurs by the NCAA therefore forfeiting their college eligibility.
EAST DIVISION | WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE | WHL
Brandon Wheat Kings
Moose Jaw Warriors
Prince Albert Raiders
Regina Pats
Saskatoon Blades
Swift Current Broncos
CENTRAL DIVISION | WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE | WHL
Calgary Hitmen
Edmonton Oil Kings
Kootenay Ice
Lethbridge Hurricanes
Medicine Hat Tigers
Red Deer Rebels
BRITISH COLUMBIA DIVISION | WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE | WHL
Kamloops Blazers
Kelowna Rockets
Prince George Cougars
Vancouver Giants
Victoria Royals
UNITED STATES DIVISION | WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE | WHL
Everett Silvertips
Portland Winterhawks
Seattle Thunderbirds
Spokane Chiefs
Tri-City Americans