National Sports

TORONTO — Matthew Schaefer is the top-ranked North American skater heading into the 2025 NHL draft. Schaefer, of Hamilton, was ranked first overall by NHL Central Scouting on its final NHL draft rankings.

Scott Arniel was head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets just over 19 months. It didn't go well. A winning percentage of .

Christian Covington has always been aware of his Hall of Fame father's many football achievements, but he now has a deeper appreciation of them. Covington is heading into his second season with the B.C.

Canada Soccer has announced its roster for the inaugural CONCACAF W Futsal Championship, scheduled for April 28 to May 4 in Guatemala.

TORONTO — CIBC has become a founding partner of the WNBA-expansion Toronto Tempo. CIBC will become the basketball team's official bank and appear on team jerseys when the Tempo begin play in 2026.

ČESKÉ BUDĚJOVICE — The Professional Women's Hockey League not only altered the makeup of rosters at the women's world hockey championship, but allowed even experienced players to expand their tool kit for the world stage.

VANCOUVER — There'll be a lot of emotions circulating at B.C. Place on Wednesday when Canada's new women's professional soccer league officially kicks off.

TORONTO — The Professional Women's Hockey League draft will be held in Ottawa in June. The league says players have until May 8 to declare their eligibility for the draft June 24 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.

VANCOUVER — Nikita Tolopilo marked a couple of big firsts on Monday. Not only did the Vancouver Canucks goalie make his first NHL start, he also collected his first win, backstopping the team to a 2-1 overtime victory against the San Jose Sharks.

EDMONTON — It will be the same dance partners for the first round of playoffs, but the opening venue will be different this time.