Alberni Valley Tourism
Newsletter
Search for:

Alberni Valley Bulldogs

Port Alberni’s BCHL Hockey Team –

Welcome to Hockey Valley!

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are more than just a hockey team. They represent Port Alberni in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and bring excitement, pride, and connection to our community. Since their arrival in 2002, the Bulldogs have become part of what makes this town special.

Alberni Valley Bulldogs Game, Port Alberni, BCHL, Vancouver Island

A Team Rooted in Port Alberni

Hockey has a long history in the Alberni Valley. When the Bulldogs relocated from Burnaby in 2002, fans embraced them as their own. Over the years, ownership has shifted, but the team’s dedication to the Valley has remained steady. In 2024, the Bulldogs entered a new chapter under Olithan Sports & Entertainment, continuing the tradition of strong community involvement.

The Dawg Pound

The Bulldogs play their home games at the Weyerhaeuser Arena, which is part of the Alberni Valley Multiplex. With nearly 1,900 seats, it is one of the most spirited rinks in the BCHL. On game nights, the stands come alive with cheers, cowbells, and a sea of red and black. For many locals, heading to the Dawg Pound is a tradition that brings friends and families together.

Alberni Valley Bulldogs, players in action on the ice

Season Highlights and Player Development

The Bulldogs compete in the Coastal Conference of the BCHL, facing rivals such as the Nanaimo Clippers and Victoria Grizzlies. In 2023, they made franchise history by reaching the Fred Page Cup Finals for the first time. That run energized the community and showed how far the program has come.

Beyond the excitement on the ice, the Bulldogs are known for player development. Since 2002, more than 80 players have advanced to NCAA Division I programs, with several continuing into professional hockey. Fans can proudly say they saw these athletes at the beginning of their journey.

More Than Hockey

The Bulldogs are part of everyday life in the Valley. Players give back through youth hockey camps, school visits, and community events. Programs like the Tim Hortons 7th Player initiative bring young fans onto the ice for unforgettable moments. The team’s presence is felt far beyond game nights, reinforcing the sense of connection that hockey creates here.

Upcoming Season Preview (2025–26)

The 2025–26 BCHL season is shaping up to be another exciting year for the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. With a mix of returning veterans and promising new recruits, the roster is built for speed, grit, and strong team chemistry. Head Coach Joe Martin has emphasized both skill development and community presence, ensuring the Bulldogs remain competitive on the ice and engaged off it.

Fans can look forward to packed Saturday night games at the Multiplex, key rival matchups against the Nanaimo Clippers, and special theme nights that bring extra energy to the Dawg Pound. As always, the Bulldogs’ commitment to developing young talent means every game could feature the next future star.

Stay tuned to the Bulldogs’ official website for the full schedule, roster announcements, and ticket information.

Catch a Game

The Bulldogs’ season runs from September through spring. Tickets are available online and at the arena box office. Whether you are a long-time fan or visiting Port Alberni for the first time, a Bulldogs game is a chance to experience the energy and pride of Hockey Valley.