Hockey Manitoba rules Ste Anne Aces must return to SEMHL

The Ste Anne Aces will be playing in the South East Manitoba Hockey League in the 2025/2026 season.

The league had booted the three-time defending champions out after their annual general meeting this summer, but the Aces appealed the decision to Hockey Manitoba, claiming the SEMHL did not follow their by-laws.

The reversal was announced on the team’s social media pages, as the provincial body ruled in the team’s favour Aug. 18.

“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,” team president and head coach Kevin Lansard wrote in a statement.

“This ruling allows us to continue competing in the SEMHL, where we rightfully belong.”

The Aces, alongside the Ile des Chenes North Stars and Red River Wild joined the SEMHL after the Carillon Senior Hockey League folded in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, winning the league all three years they’ve played in it.

“We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who stood behind us through this process — our volunteers, fans sponsors, players and coaches,” Lansard wrote.

“Your belief in our team and your commitment to our community have been unwavering. This victory is not just ours — it belongs to all of you who make the Aces what we are.”

The SEMHL even removed the Aces logo from their website after kicking them out, with the last post on the site celebrating Ste Anne’s victory in the Manitoba Senior A Provincial Championships.

“We recognize that challenges remain, but this ruling is an important step in ensuring fairness and accountability in senior hockey,” Lansard wrote.

“We look forward to continuing to compete, to represent Ste Anne with pride, and to provide our players and fans with the experience they deserve.”