The Western Hockey League and the Canadian Sport School Hockey League have joined forces.

The and this week entered into a partnership agreement encompassing the 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 hockey seasons.

鈥淭he CSSHL has become an important part of the player development system in Western Canada and the WHL is please to extend our commitment as an Official Partner of the League over the next three seasons,鈥� said WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. 鈥淭his season alone, 90 WHL prospects are continuing their development in the CSSHL and the WHL is pleased to continue supporting these players as they pursue their hockey and academic goals.鈥�

The WHL will be recognized as an official partner of the CSSHL, as well as a presenting sponsor and awards supplier for the CSSHL Championships.

鈥淭he CSSHL is very pleased to partner with the WHL in this three year agreement,鈥� said CSSHL chairperson Andy Oakes. 鈥淭he WHL is the premier development ground for young hockey players in Western Canada and Western United States and we are excited to be working with them.

"This agreement will open doors between both leagues that ultimately will create opportunities for the players in the CSSHL. As we strive to be the leaders in education based hockey in the country this is another step moving the league forward in a positive manner.鈥�

A total of 90 former CSSHL student athletes were on WHL opening weekend rosters, while more than 80 WHL draft picks are currently competing in the CSSHL. Forty-two CSSHL student athletes were selected at the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft, including five in the first round.

琉璃神社's Pursuit of Excellence and Okanagan Hockey Academy in Penticton are both members of the CSSHL.