alumni

NHL superstar Cale Makar began his minor hockey journey with the Crowchild Blackhawks, one of the legacy associations that helped form today's Northwest Warriors. From his early days at Crowchild Twin Arena, Makar rose through Calgary’s community system to become one of the best defencemen of his generation.

Drafted 4th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in 2017, Cale quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier defensemen, earning the Calder Trophy (2020), Norris Trophy (2022, 2025), and Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP during the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup championship run in 2022. He has also been named an NHL First-Team All-Star multiple times.

Internationally, Makar has represented Canada with distinction, winning gold at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship and helping Canada capture the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off championship. He also represented Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, earning a silver medal.

Cale’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible through hard work, dedication, and community hockey.

Featured Calgary Sun articles:

• "All Hail Cale": Inside Makar’s rise from Crowchild Twin Arena to Conn Smythe Trophy winner
• “It feels great to be back”: Makar brings the Stanley Cup to Crowchild Twin Arena

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