Bree Prediger of Rocky Mountain House has been named to Team Alberta’s roster for the 2025 National Women’s Under-18 Championship, set for Nov. 2 to 8 in Mount Pearl and Conception Bay South, N.L.

Prediger, a defenceman with the Edmonton Jr. Oilers U18 AAA, is among 20 top athletes selected to wear Alberta’s colours.

Ty Prediger, Bree’s father, says his daughter has deep roots in the Rocky hockey community. Local skating coach Tanis Gehrke first introduced her to skating at a young age.

From there, she progressed through minor hockey in Rocky, before moving on to play U18 AA and U18 AAA in Red Deer. She was later recruited by the Jr. Oilers, helping them capture the 2025 Esso Cup championship.

“She started out as a stay-at-home defenceman — pretty timid — but her skating level is elite,” said Ty. “She’s developed into more of an offensive defenceman.”

While still known for her responsible play in the defensive zone, Bree has added an ability to jump into the play and contribute offensively.

Indeed, the 2008-born player tallied 23 points — nine goals and 14 assists — in 27 games with the Jr. Oilers during the 2024–25 season.

Ty Prediger speaking to his daughter’s on-ice playing style

This year’s Team Alberta lineup includes two goaltenders, six defencemen and 12 forwards from communities across the province, including Edmonton, Calgary, Airdrie, Sherwood Park, Lloydminster and Strathmore.

After being one of the final cuts from last year’s team as a rookie, Bree returned this year with a personal goal of making the roster. She impressed at both the U18 summer and fall selection camps, held in Red Deer.

The final roster was selected after a competitive camp involving 46 players, followed by a shortlist of 28 who attended fall camp. That camp included exhibition games against U Sports programs such as the University of Alberta and University of Calgary women’s teams.

“When Bree showed up to camp, I think it opened her eyes to how good the competition is,” said Ty. “The rookies get better every year — they’re bigger, faster and stronger. Making the team wasn’t going to be easy.”

He credits his daughter’s work ethic and determination for helping her secure a spot.

Ty and his wife plan to travel to Newfoundland and Labrador to watch the tournament.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” he said.

The full schedule can be found here.