Third annual Battle of the Churches hockey tournament expanding to Abbotsford

Event is set for Sardis Sports Centre and Summit Centre from Aug. 13 to 15

The third annual Battle of the Churches hockey fundraiser is expanding and the 2026 event features games in Chilliwack and Abbotsford. For the first time ever, this year’s tournament will be spread over three days and it is scheduled to run Aug. 13 at the Sardis Sports Centre and Aug. 14 and 15 in Abbotsford’s Summit Centre. A total of 14 teams are set to compete and competitive and non-competitive divisions are being offered.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Battle of The Churches Fraser Valley (@battleofthechurches_fv) The final day on Aug. 15 is being referred to as Family Fun Day, with face painting, bouncy castles, food trucks, a barbecue and other activities both on and off the ice at the Summit Centre. The event is a fundraiser for Safe Families Canada Lower Mainland, which is an organization that works children and youth living in vulnerable families who are at risk of abuse or neglect.

The fundraising goal for 2026 is $100,000 and as of press time a total of $36,300 has already been raised. “Your participation and support help make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families experiencing crisis,” organizers stated. “Every ticket purchased, meal shared, and cheer from the stands contributes to practical care and compassionate support for families right here in your community.

The Battle of the Churches has become a much-anticipated and successful fundraiser, uniting people around a shared goal: strengthening families and offering hope when it’s needed most.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Battle of The Churches Fraser Valley (@battleofthechurches_fv) The event debuted over two days in August 2024 at the Chilliwack Coliseum with eight teams participating.

Last year saw the event return to the Coliseum and move to a one-day format. Organizers stated that the venue change was needed for 2026 due to issues with the chiller system at the Coliseum. For more information on the event, visit instagram.com/battleofthechurches_fv.