With the 51st season fast approaching for the PJHL, the off-season isn’t without some concern that put two of its teams in jeopardy of having to find a rink for the upcoming season.
The season ended after what some might call a successful “banner” 50th year which in reality is an anniversary.
For those involved with the league, both past and present they should be commended on a job well done and Sportswave wishes them all the best in the years ahead.
Last year saw the first ‘showcase” tournament (if you will) and it was hosted by the Richmond Sockeyes and played out of the Minoru Arena.
Overall the event saw each team play two games (home and away) and was well received by most.
While the games were webcast, there was no media attending from various outlets in the lower mainland, which many wondered why they were not at the games.
Simply put from my sources they were unaware of it’s existence and unlike the BCHL their showcase in Chilliwack is well promoted and well attended.
This includes the media and scouts from various hockey clubs in Canada as well as the US.
Regardless of this the season finished on a high-note, which took a few twists and turns of its own?
One included the Delta Ice Hawks ousting the North Van Wolfpack to advance them to the Conference finals advancing to play the Steelers, but what a way to finish the season.
This following the Coaching change for the Ice Hawks in the last regular season game against the Sockeyes that saw Darrin Naylor replaces the outgoing coach.
With this addition, it not only showed confidence in the squad, but an overall desire to win by ownership.
Given the success most thought the ship was headed in the fight direction, only to be thrown into a new current or riptide.
The discussion arose at one of the Delta Parks and Rec meeting, where the board (apparently) passed an understanding not to renew the contract with the Ice Hawks.
This alone had most in the hockey circles scratching their heads wondering why this would happen, but apparently it did.
The motion was sent on to Delta Council and prior to the May 30th meeting held at the Kennedy Senior’s Centre, the issue was resolved granting them to return for the upcoming season.
Many are asking what is next for the Ice Hawks following this season, but that’s a new chapter so you’ll have to wait and see.
Next up was the relocation of the Vancouver Giants to the Langley Events Centre and it wasn’t rocket science to know someone of something would get moved.
In this case it was the Langley Rivermen of the BCHL to play out of the George Preston Arena and again one has to ask what happens to the Langley Knights of the PJHL?
I received notice earlier today that the Langley Knights are moving and will still be know as the Knights, but this time – the Surrey Knights.
They will be playing out of the North Surrey Rec Centre on Thursday nights at 7:30 pm and hopefully when Surrey gets the new rink, they’ll be the first Junior hockey tenant.
Hopefully this will end the past couple of turbulent swells amidst a sea of hockey controversy for various leagues.
We’ll keep you posted!!
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