BCHL All-Star Weekend In Penticton

Photo Credit BCHL

By now everyone knows that the BCHL withdrew from Hockey Canada for reasons that many still question, but regardless it was a decision the league owners obviously wanted.

Regardless they continue to play games attracting solid numbers to all games as well as attract scouts who continue to search for the next superstar that can lead their team to the Stanley Cup.

Since they pulled out of Hockey Canada all other three (former) Junior B leagues elevated their status to Junior A Tier Two setting their sights on becoming Tier One in the next couple of years which will happen despite the skeptics.

Now we are hearing that the BCHL recently announced that the league will hold an All-Star Weekend which will return to Penticton in January of 2024. 

The following is from the BCHL

In partnership with the City of Penticton, the league will once again hold a Top Prospects Game at the South Okanagan Events Centre, as well as an outdoor Alumni & Friends Game, 

Skills Competition and All-Star Tournament on the outdoor rink. The event will take place Jan. 19 and 20. 

“After the success of last year’s All-Star Weekend where we celebrated our 60^th Anniversary, we are thrilled to announce this marquee event is coming back to the Okanagan,” said BCHL Commissioner Steven Cocker. “Fans will once again be treated with the opportunity to watch the best players the BCHL has to offer, plus some big-name alumni and special guests, playing in unique situations like the Top Prospects Game or on the outdoor rink.” 

“The BCHL would like to thank the City of Penticton for their support of this event, as well as our event partners Bauer, PetroValue, Pro Hockey Life, Rogers and Westland Insurance.” 

“With the great success of last year’s 60th anniversary All-Star event here in Penticton, we are very excited to welcome the BCHL All-Star Weekend back to our community,” said Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “The caliber of player is exceptional and the commitment to fan involvement is outstanding. From the Top Prospects Game to the skills challenge on the outdoor rink, the weekend is designed to create special memories for all involved and we’re pleased to be part of it.” 

Schedule 

Friday, Jan. 19: Top Prospects Game – 6 p.m. at South Okanagan Events Centre 

Saturday, Jan. 20: BCHL Skills Competition – 11:30 a.m. at Penticton Outdoor Rink
                                Alumni & Friends Game – 12:30 p.m. at Penticton Outdoor Rink
                                BCHL All-Star Tournament – 2 p.m. at Penticton Outdoor Rink 

*Note: schedule may be subject to change 

Announcements will begin this week for All-Star Tournament rosters with further details coming in the following weeks. 

In conjunction with All-Star Weekend, the City of Penticton is creating the first annual Frost Festival, which will run beside the outdoor rink. More details to come.