"We are all really excited for this weekend, it's in our own rink, and it really is giving us the opportunity that is given to most guys because it's related to the Telus Cup," said Wildcats forward Laura Williams, 17, of Souris.

"Hockey Canada is making this as important as the guys' AAA division now and that's a huge step in the right direction for female hockey in Manitoba."

"It's a pretty big deal for us, this opportunity hasn't been here before so girls hockey in Manitoba is moving forward and it's so exciting to be a part of it," said Wildcats centre Jenna-Marie Durnin of Wawanesa.