1897 AHAC season

The 1897 Amateur Hockey Association of Canada season lasted from January 9 until March 6. Each team played 8 games, and Montreal Victorias were again first with a 7–1 record, retaining the Stanley Cup. The club won the Stanley Cup back from the Winnipeg Victorias prior to the season. This was their third-straight league championship.

Executive

 * J. A. Findlay, Montreal (President)
 * J. H. Dunbar, Quebec (1st. Vice-Pres.)
 * W. C. Young, Ottawa (2nd. Vice-Pres.)

At the annual meeting on December 12, 1896, the secretary reported that the association had lost all of its records in a fire, except for its minutes.

Rule Changes

 * No more than a 15 minute delay during a game
 * No raising the stick above the shoulder except for 'lifting.'
 * Executives were given the power to suspend club or player for foul play.
 * Protests of games had to be made within two days.

Highlights
Clare McKerrow of Montreal HC set a new record with six goals in the opening game against Quebec on January 9.

The Ottawa club moved to new Dey's Arena.

Results
† ''Protested by Ottawa who scored the tying goal in last few seconds but the goal was disallowed by the referee. The protest was upheld and the game replayed.''

‡ Replay of January 30 protested game.

Victorias vs. Winnipeg at Winnipeg
Prior to the season, Victorias would defeat the Winnipeg Victorias of the (Manitoba Hockey Association) 6–5, on December 30, 1896, to reclaim the Cup they had lost in the previous season to Winnipeg.

Referee - W. C. Young, Ottawa Umpires - A. Shearer, Montreal; D. Clark, Winnipeg