World junior hockey brought $86M to Saskatchewan

Hockey players weren't the only ones who scored when the world junior hockey championship was held in Saskatchewan last December.

The province's economic activity increased by $86 million, the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance said Tuesday. About 302,000 fans attended the 31 games held in Saskatoon and Regina from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5.

The event also generated more than $15 million for grassroots Hockey Canada programs and for the Canadian Hockey League's player development, officials say.

Scott Smith, Hockey Canada's chief operating officer, said the championship has an impact on communities — both in the short and the long term.

The U.S. won the championship, beating Canada 6-5 in overtime.