The Steinbach Pistons are proud to announce that the organization ranked among the very top teams in Canada in attendance during the 2025–26 season, reinforcing what fans already knew—this was a truly special year at the Southeast Event Centre.
While many Junior A markets across Canada see steady support, very few approach the level of consistency and energy that Pistons fans brought this season. With multiple crowds pushing capacity and an average attendance of nearly 2,000 fans per game, the Southeast Event Centre quickly became one of the premier game-day environments in Canadian Junior A hockey.
Based on compiled data from the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), the Pistons averaged approximately 1,885 fans per game, placing them #2 nationally.
CJHL Attendance Leaders (2025–26)
1. Edmundston Blizzard (MHL) – 2,327
2. Steinbach Pistons (MJHL) – 1,885
3. Grand Prairie Storm (AJHL) – 1,486
4. Summerside Western Capitals (MHL) – 1,344
5. Chaleur Lightning (MHL) – 1,260
6. Lloydminster Bobcats (AJHL) – 1,245
7. Fort McMurray Oil Barons (AJHL) – 1,192
8. Yorkton Terriers (SJHL) – 1,108
9. Weeks Crushers (MHL) – 1,105
10. Humboldt Broncos (SJHL) – 1,009
Across more than 100 teams nationwide, Steinbach sits firmly among the elite markets in all of Junior A hockey. Within the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL), the Pistons separated themselves from the rest of the league.
MJHL Attendance (2025–26)
Steinbach Pistons – 1,885
Virden Oil Capitals – 745
Dauphin Kings – 715
Portage Terriers – 704
Niverville Nighthawks – 642
Winkler Flyers – 466
Northern Manitoba Blizzard – 325
Waywayseecappo Wolverines – 324
Swan Valley Stampeders – 323
Neepawa Titans – 306
Selkirk Steelers – 299
Winnipeg Blues – 196
Winnipeg Monarchs – 110
This level of support created a clear distinction—Steinbach wasn’t just strong locally; it operated at a level that was at the top in Junior A hockey in Canada.
How does Steinbach compare to the British Columbia Hockey League? The BCHL is widely considered one of the premier Junior A leagues in North America, featuring larger population centres and strong attendance.
Top BCHL Communities (2025–26)
Vernon Vipers – 2,195
Chilliwack Chiefs – 1,953
Trail Smoke Eaters – 1,566
Cranbrook Bucks – 1,554
Cowichan Valley Capitals – 1,359
Spruce Grove Saints – 1,359
Brooks Bandits – 1,306
Steinbach’s 1,885 average would rank them third in the BCHL, ahead of the majority of the teams in that league.
A Season Driven by Community
More than the numbers, this season was about something bigger – community. This past season gave our region the opportunity to come together, no matter the weather, to celebrate, high-five, and yes, sometimes complain about a bad call on the ice.
The Southeast Event Centre was built to bring our community together and enhance the region, and it would be hard to say it didn’t do that for families, friends, co-workers, and young athletes this past season.
The Steinbach Pistons organization would like to extend their thanks to the entire community.
“What our fans created this season was truly special,” said Steinbach Pistons Director of Operations, Kevin Geisheimer. “To see the building come alive night after night, to feel the energy and pride in this community—it’s something we will never take for granted. Thank you for being part of something unique.”
Join the Excitement
Seize the opportunity to be part of an exclusive hockey experience right in your community by becoming a season ticket holder. Adult tickets start at just $13.50 per game, while youth tickets are available for $6.50. Don’t miss out—visit tickets.steinbachpistons.ca and secure your spot for next season!
