The Ste. Anne Senior Aces have gotten their wish.
Last week, the Aces and team president and head coach Kevin Lansard announced on Instagram that Hockey Manitoba ruled in favour of their appeal regarding the South Eastern Manitoba Hockey League’s decision to remove them from the league.
The Aces were informed they had been removed from the SEMHL at a league meeting on May 4 at Carman Golf Course, following an alleged vote by multiple member teams.
“This was a long process, and we are extremely grateful that Hockey Manitoba has recognized our position and confirmed that the league’s actions were not in line with proper governance,” Lansard said in the statement. “This ruling allows us to continue competing in the SEMHL, where we rightfully belong. From the beginning, our goal has been to build a respectful, competitive team that represents our players, our community and our fans with pride. Today’s ruling reaffirms those values and gives our players and supporters the clarity they deserve.”
Now back in the league, the Aces will enter the 2025-26 season looking to defend their title as champions.
The Aces have captured the championship in all three seasons they’ve competed in the league.
In that three-year span, they have finished first in the regular season twice, posting a combined 31-5 record over the past two campaigns.
The Carman Beavers, Ile des Chênes Northstars, Morden Bombers, Notre Dame Hawks, Portage Islanders, Red River Wild, Springfield Winterhawks, Warren Mercs and Winkler Royals made up the other nine clubs that competed in the 10-team league in 2024-25.
