WHL CLUBS RECOGNIZE NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATIO

Story by Steve Erickson

This isn’t something that should be within one part of society but rather within all communities so as we can get some form of resemblance of sheer respect back in today’s world which is sadly missing.  Now more than ever various sports groups are stepping up and showing support and recognizing Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in partnership with the Orange Shirt Society.

The Western Hockey League is no different, with their member clubs displaying a helmet decal depicting the WHL Truth and Reconciliation logo between September 30th to October 9th, which was designed by Métis artist Kim Vizi-Carmen of Pinerock Graphics. 

Having the logo on the helmet will increase overall awareness for Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada and around the world.

Ron Robison the WHL Commissioner mentioned “The WHL is proud to continue its partnership with the Orange Shirt Society to create awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of the residential school system,”.

He continued “All Canadians have a responsibility to educate themselves on the trauma that continues to inflict pain upon generations of people to this day, and the WHL is honoured to play a part in this process as we strive towards Truth and Reconciliation.” 

Fans will also see in-venue programming, including a moment of silence, to commemorate the legacy of residential schools in Canada.

The partnership between the WHL and Orange Shirt Society started in September 2022, with a strong commitment by the league to contribute to the goals of the Orange Shirt Society which  includes

• Supporting Indian Residential School Reconciliation;
• Creating awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of the Indian Residential Schools through Orange Shirt Society activities, and;
• Creating awareness of the concept of “Every Child Matters.”
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The logo is anchored by the traditional Medicine Wheel, which represents all four directions of North, East, South, and West; spirituality in its various forms – mental, emotional, and physical; as well as our elders, parents, youth, and children.

Traditionally, stars act as our guide or a compass to provide direction. The four stars depicted above the WHL logo incorporate this while also representing the four divisions – East, Central, B.C. and U.S. – along with the players and talent of the WHL.

The top of the WHL Truth and Reconciliation logo features two feathers representing honesty, truth and wisdom. At the base of the logo are antlers representing courage and strength. Where the antlers meet one will find the sun and the moon. The inclusion of the sun brings warmth, healing, and peace, while the moon serves as our protector, guardian spirit, and transformation.

The logo provides guidance in practical endeavors as well as a spiritual identity for everyone in today’s world. 

September 30th marks the 10th anniversary of Orange Shirt Day as well as serves the third National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which honours lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities which impacts residential schools within the reconciliation process.

On June 3, 2021, the Government of Canada officially dedicated a federal statutory holiday to commemorate the legacy of residential schools. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours Call to Action #80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation represents an opportunity for all Canadians to listen and learn from Indigenous leaders in which all Canadians play a role in the experience of reconciliation.

Canadians must learn to educate themselves by reading the 94 Calls to Action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. 

SUPPORT: If you are a Survivor of or family member impacted by the residential school system and need emotional support, a national crisis line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Residential School Survivor Support Line: 1-866-925-4419

Story by Steve Erickson

Last season the BCHC Prospects game was played in Chilliwack that saw players from both the KIJHL and the PJHL entertaining the fans to some exciting hockey at the Sardis Sports Complex in the City of Chilliwack.

As many know last season this was classifed Junior “B” hockey but this year it’s exciting Tier 2 Junior A Hockey which proves the league’s continue to entice talent from various areas.

We just received this from the PJHL and as both Ian Wilson and I are doing the Richmond Sockeyes game this evening in Richmond we wanted to give everyone a “heads-up” on the news.

Enjoy the read:

The British Columbia Hockey Conference is excited to announce details of its second annual Prospects Game, which will be hosted by the Kamloops Storm on Tuesday, November 28th at McArthur Park Arena.

The 2023 BCHC Prospects Game will see the top young players from the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League and Pacific Junior Hockey League face off in front of scouts from the Western Hockey League and a number of post-secondary hockey programs. 

The coaching staffs for the KIJHL and PJHL teams will be announced shortly, with rosters for the game expected to be finalized in late October.

The first annual BCHC Prospects Game was contested in Chilliwack on November 22, 2022, with Team KIJHL edging out the PJHL with a narrow 4-3 victory. 

That game was played when the two leagues still held the Junior B designation, and players advancing included the KIJHL’s Ben Edwards (Victoria Royals, WHL), Kent Moors (Cowichan Valley, BCHL), Damon Cunningham (Nipawin, SJHL) and Austin Seibel (Dauphin, MJHL), and the PJHL’s Brandon Osborne (Cowichan Valley, BCHL), Dylan Emerson (Merritt, BCHL), Andrew Casellato (Battlefords, SJHL), Brayden Sinclair (Battlefords, SJHL) and Payton Hu (La Ronge, SJHL),

“Last year’s BCHC Prospects Game proved to be extremely competitive and well received by coaches and scouts,” says KIJHL Commissioner Jeff Dubois. “We’re very excited for the KIJHL and the Kamloops Storm to host this event in November and continue to make this a tremendous experience for the top young Junior A players in British Columbia.”

The respective Prospects Game teams will arrive in Kamloops on November 27th for a team practice and banquet dinner. Game day activities will include a morning skate, team meetings and video sessions.

“The Kamloops Storm are thrilled to be the first KIJHL franchise to host the BCHC Prospects Game and showcase the best young talent in our two leagues,” says Kamloops Storm general manager Matt Kolle. “We have a tremendous fan base that I know will embrace this outstanding event.”

Additional event details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Story by Steve Erickson

Changes continue to take place in various leagues all of which are in the best interest for the growth of the game, the team and the community where the move happens.

Recently the BCHL Cowichan Valley Capitals were sold with a new ownership group taking over as in the following press release from the BCHL

Enjoy the read:

The BC Hockey League (BCHL) Board of Governors has approved the sale of the Cowichan Valley Capitals to Island Capitals Sports & Entertainment.

The group will take over ownership of the team immediately after purchasing the franchise from former owner Ray Zhang.

The ownership group is headed up by John Dewar, managing partner of Maxxam Insurance and a BCHL alumnus, as well as former NHL player Clayton Stoner.

“We are thrilled to take the reins and start working to make this a very successful and proud franchise,” said Dewar. “With the recent changes happening in the BCHL, we couldn’t be more excited to join such a great league with a tremendous history.”

“Being a Cowichan Valley resident myself, I am extremely excited to get the community and local businesses to come support our team and bring an increased sense of pride to such a great local sports organization. As a local ownership group, we are proud to be a part of this community and are strong believers in producing a successful franchise for years to come.”

“Having grown up and played minor and junior hockey on the Island, I am very excited to put my passion for the game into the Cowichan Valley Capitals and the community,” said Stoner. “We have a competitive group of owners that are committed to improving and bringing growth to the Capitals organization. We are very excited to get started with our home opener this weekend against Nanaimo.”

The BCHL Board of Governors approved the sale in a vote that concluded earlier today.

“On behalf of our Board, I would like to thank Ray Zhang for his seven years as owner of the Cowichan Valley Capitals,” said Graham Fraser, Chairman of the BCHL Board of Governors. “We are excited to welcome the new ownership group in Cowichan and are confident that their leadership will help take the Capitals to another level, on and off the ice.”

Sending more players on to Division I college hockey every season than any other hockey league in Canada, the BCHL has established itself as a national leader in the development of young student athletes. 

Considering approximately a third of today’s NHL is made up of NCAA alumni, the BCHL has become a breeding ground for some the sport’s most elite and successful players. In 2022-23 alone, there were a league-record 190 players in the league with NCAA Division I scholarships. 

The BCHL is also a leader in player safety, with a full-time Department of Player Safety, the toughest rules on fighting in North American junior hockey, as well as a league-wide independent Safe Sport Officer and an individual Athlete Advocate assigned to all 17 teams.

Story by Steve Erickson

In order to move forward any club or organization strongly relies on not only support from the community, but also strong support from the ownership.

We are hearing as per the note received earlier that the Vancouver Giants are on a rebuild, no pun included but on the ice.

Off the ice their rebuild is allowing the team to put the beams in place so as to weatherguard any potential of a storm thrown at them in either direction.

In order to weather any story it’s important for any sporting organization to have the necessary pieces in place so as they can pave the way to the ice.

We received the following from the Vancouver Giants as they have added to their ownership group by announcing the addition of Vancouver native Drew Scott to their ownership group. 

Enjoy the read!!

Scott, on his own is an entrepreneur, designer, author, producer, and leader in the home space as an expert in real estate, home renovation, and home design and also the co-founder of leading lifestyle and entertainment company 

Scott Brothers Global, which includes award-winning content producer Scott Brothers Entertainment as well as beloved home brands Scott Living and Drew & Jonathan Home.  Scott hosts and executive produces multiple top-rated HGTV series including the Emmy-nominated Property Brothers and Property Brothers: Forever Home, Brother vs. Brother, and Celebrity IOU. “I am honoured and thrilled to join the Vancouver Giants ownership group,” said Drew Scott. 

“My hometown holds a very special place in my heart, and the city has the best sports fans. I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute my expertise and use my platform to help accelerate the team’s growth and community impact.” “I’m looking forward to working alongside a talented team of people with the same vision and commitment to transcend the organization both on and off the ice,” 

Scott added. Giants part-owner Michael Bublé and Scott have known each other for years, and often talked about making a positive impact in their hometown community. 

When Bublé brought the opportunity to Scott, it made perfect sense. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of the ownership group for the Vancouver Giants and thrilled to welcome my longtime friend and fellow Vancouver guy, Drew Scott, to the team,” Bublé said. “I love hockey so much, and it has been such a rewarding experience to be part of my favourite sport at a grassroots level. Drew brings a new level of excitement and visibility to the Giants. 

I’m excited to work alongside him as we continue to support our incredible city, the beautiful people, and the greatest game on Earth.” 

In addition to Scott, the Vancouver Giants ownership group now includes Majority Owner Ron Toigo, and part owners Sultan Thiara, Michael Bublé, Lewis Bublé, and Bruce Allen. 

Scott and the Bublés are taking over the Quinn family’s estate share. “Aside from being a really good guy that will certainly work with all of us, Scott’s experience and expertise will help build our brand in a way that we haven’t been able to do in the past,” Toigo said. “He is excited to be part of the team and we’re thrilled to have him on board.” 

Working with the ownership group it’s clear that he wants to help work to shape the foundation of the organization which might be tough as they currently have all the pieces in place for what we are looking for a successful season.

Story bySteve Erickson

While the season is still early it’s imperative that consistency continues ensuring that playing a full sixty minutes is both necessary and essential as the season progresses.

Game three saw the Steelers return in hopes of avenging the pre-season loss they were handed but despite the solid play between the pipes of Ronin Geraghty they were unable to solve the powerful offense the Sockeyes threw at them.

Justin Grant opened the scoring which was followed up by the second marker with rookie Gavin Sangara giving them the early lead eight minutes in.

The Steelers continued to press, managing to get on the board at 11:13 only to have the Sockeyes Noah Gibbons and Nicholas Noren get a shorthanded goal that saw them take a 4-2 lead to the dressing room after one.

The first saw Richmond pepper the net with 23 shots while the Steelers could only manage 11 while the first saw only one minor assessed in what was otherwise a relatively clean period.

The second was a continuation of the first with goals from Willian Huo while Noren got a shorthanded marker (second of the game) in a period that saw the Steelers come out more aggressive taking four or the six minors.

The third saw no let-up as the Sockeyes got another pair from Bryce Strandt and Teo Lin while the Steelers could only manage one heading home with a “L” in the stat column.

Thomas Popa had another stellar performance playing a full sixty turning aside 23 of 25 while Ronin Geraghty stopped 47 of the 55 he faced.

Game Stars:

1st        Nicholas Noren   (2G/1A)

2nd       Justin Grant        (1G/1A)

3rd        Teo Lin               (1G/3A)

Game two of week three saw the Sockeyes face their rival White Rock Whalers in a game where they knew it would be a hard fought match-up that ended up with no shortage of penalties.

Strandt continued his scoring way by managing to put the Sockeyes up with the early lead while on the PP a short 1:02 into the game while rookie Rajun Parmar notched his first of the season taking a 2-0 lead after 40 minutes.

The second was all Whalers as they tallied three in  a heated period that saw the teams trade seven penalties while the Sockeyes sent 28 shots on goal to the Whalers 21  directed at Popa through 40 minutes.

The third was all  Richmond replying to the three in the second that White Rock had as markers came from Teo Lin, Kai McComb with the empty net marker hammered home by Gavin Bains

The third saw each team continue to test each other with the rough play as the Whalers took two of the five assessed.

Thomas Popa again played stellar stopping 20 of 23 while Keegan Maddocks stopped 32 of42 through 60 minutes

Game Stars:

1st        Kai McComb       (1G)

 2nd      Nathan Bran        (2G)     

3rd        Teo Lin                (1G)

The Sockeyes next home game is September 21st as they face North Van followed by a return match against White Rock at the Centennial Arena Sunday September 24th with the face-off at 2:45 pm.

Story by Steve Erickson

Locally the Vancouver Giants are set to hit the ice for the upcoming 2023-24 season with several special events planned for everyone to enjoy.

Each and every season attending a Giants game is more than just a hockey game, it’s an evening of enjoyment for the entire family.

We received the following and wanted to share it so you can mark the dates on your calendar.

Enjoy the read:

This year, many fan-favourites return, guaranteeing a season full of fun for the entire family. The Giants want to remind fans that all Friday home games now begin at 7 p.m. instead of 7:30 p.m.

“A huge thank you goes out to our incredible sponsors, whose support makes these special nights possible,” Giants Sr. Vice President Dale Saip said. “We can’t wait to get this season underway and see all our amazing fans back at the LEC.”

The Giants kick off their home schedule on Friday, September 22, when they welcome division-rival Victoria to the Lower Mainland in the White Spot Home Opener, with puck drop at 7 p.m. 

Friday’s home opener will include a pre-game announcement and ceremonial puck drop with a special guest, who will be revealed the day prior to the home opener.

Exactly one month later, the Giants will host their first ever Referee Appreciation Night, where the team will don unique, one-of-a-kind jerseys. Following the game, these jerseys will be auctioned off online.

Three other popular dates return to the LEC prior to the Christmas break, with Save on Foods Trick or Suite happening on Sunday, Oct. 29, White Spot Legends Weekend coming to town on Nov. 17/18 and the annual Chevrolet Teddy Bear Toss taking place on Saturday, Dec. 9.

In the new year, a couple of favourites return. 

A Family Day matinee against Spokane will take place on Monday, Feb. 19 and a St. Patrick’s Day Game against Prince George will be played on Sunday, March 17. Plus, the Giants will host a game promoting positive mental health in partnership with the CMHA on Friday, Feb. 16 against Portland.

As always, the season wraps up with Fan Appreciation Night, which will take place on Friday, March 22 against the Kelowna Rockets.

Additional details on specific games will be released throughout the season.

You can view the FULL 2023-24 Vancouver Giants Promotional Schedule below:

• Fri. Sept. 22 vs. Victoria Royals at 7 p.m. – Home Opener, presented by White Spot
• Sun. Oct. 22 vs. Spokane Chiefs at 4 p.m. – Referee Appreciation Night, presented by The Hockey Shop
• Sun. Oct. 29 vs. Kamloops Blazers at 4 p.m. – Trick or Suite, presented by Save on Foods
• Fri. Nov. 17 vs. Prince George Cougars/Sat. Nov. 18 vs. Lethbridge Hurricanes at 7 p.m. – Legends Weekend, presented by White Spot
• Sat. Dec. 9 vs. Everett Silvertips at 7 p.m. – Teddy Bear Toss, presented by Chevrolet
• Fri. Feb. 16 vs. Portland Winterhawks at 7 p.m. – CMHA Talk Today Game
• Mon. Feb. 19 vs. Spokane Chiefs at 2 p.m. – Family Day Matinee, presented by Valley West Stampede
• Sun. March 3 vs. Seattle Thunderbirds at 4 p.m. – Nickelodeon Night, presented by RE/MAX
• Sun. March 17 vs. Prince George Cougars at 4 p.m. – St. Patricks Day Game, presented by Great Western Brewery.
• Fri. March 22 vs. Kelowna Rockets at 7 p.m. – Fan Appreciation Night
• 
  

Story by Steve Erickson

Week one wrapped up the way preseason ended that saw a pair of wins by scores of 8-2 over the visiting expansion Poco Trailblazers for the home opener which was followed by a 5-2 win on the road over the North Van Wolfpack

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There is no question that the ‘new look” Sockeyes are focused on putting a winning product on the ice for the fans in Richmond to be not only proud of but also supportive of for all home games.

The home opener had many wondering what the Trailblazers would bring as the PJHL’s newest expansion club and from all indications while they may have not got the start they wanted in this game they’ll get better as the season progresses.

It was ironic that Robbie Toor put a damper on the home opener giving the visitors the early lead 2:40 in only to have returning Sockeye Justin Grant even the game at one a short:1:37 later.

Clearly the Sockeyes focus this season is to not only get the early lead but pepper the  opposition tender and in this contest the Sockeyes outshot Poco by a 12-7 margin after twenty minutes.

There is no question that whatever was said between periods had the squad focused as they came out with more gusto than games last season turning on the red light seven times forcing Poco to  change tenders 11:50 into the second.

All goalies will tell you that it’s not a good thing to get scored on with the first shot on goal and in this case it was Sean Van Bergen who replaced Wimur Mikhashin only to have the first shot slip past him.  In fairness to Bergen there were five in front of him but regardless it took only 29 seconds for Richmond’s Bryce Strandt to get his first of the season giving the Sockeye’s 5-1 lead.

The second ended as they held a 8-1 lead while hammering 38 shots on goal through 40 minutes that saw a let down 21 seconds in the final frame that saw Poco’s Linden Stoerbo round out the scoring for the visitors.

Final shots in the contest saw Richmond outshoot Poco by a 64-27 tally managing six minors while the visitors were tagged with four all of which were minor penalties.

Game star in the home opener was returning Callum Lind who finished with one goal and a pair of assists.

Next up saw the team travel to North Van taking on the Wolfpack that saw them continue where they left off getting the early lead 5;23 in as Tanner Milne followed by Grant’s second on the PP while Soares got his first as they took a 3-0 lead to the room after 20 minutes.

The second saw the teams trade goals as did the third with the Sockeyes finished with a 5-2 win in a contest that saw the Wolfpack tagged with 12 minors while 10.

Richmond got stellar goaltending from returning Sockeye Thomas Popa who faced 28 shots while North Van used both tenders but sadly there were with no game stars listed in the official stats.

Top Scores for Richmond

#  4  Mattias Uyeda             5 Assists

#22  Eithan Grishin                4 Assists

#16  Justin Grant      2 Goals  1 Assist

310  Callum Lind     1 Goal    2 Assists

#18 Noah Gibbons   1 Goal    2 Assists

Next home game September 14 against Grandview Steelers 

Story by Steve Erickson, PS by D. Laird Allan

Memories last a lifetime and in this case I was reminded of the Assassination of John F. Kennedy November 22, 1963 that shook the world only thinking how much more horrible 911 was knowing that a plane had flown into the World Trade Centre in Manhattan.

On this day 22 years ago four planes hijacked by terrorists crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania killing almost 3,000 innocent people and reported that 2,753 people were missing in lower Manhattan.

Watching the unprovoked attacks on incident citizens of New York that left the world stunned in shock and to this day as a Canadian it’s something that I will never ever forget.

I look back knowing that my Dad was with the UN Peacekeeping forces stationed in Cairo Egypt from September 57 to September 58 telling us how his plane was shot down over the Gaza Strip along with other stories that would shock many in today’s world.

I for one am proud of my Dad as well and his Brothers who joined the military to keep us safe from any harm that might come from outside forces.

The events Sept. 11, 2001 forever changed the World as 19 terrorists with al-Qaida, an Islamist extremist group led by Osama bin Laden, hijacked four passenger airplanes in an all out effort to commit attacks in the United States.

Everyone who is old enough remembers exactly where they were and what they were doing when what they were doing simply was less important than their job.

The killing of innocent Men, Women and Children saw how relevant the police, firefighters, K-9  and first responders jumped into action without giving any thought to the meaning of their own life. 

They are trained to act by putting the injured first running into the burning building as those in the buildings were making their way out floor after floor.

Hearing of this horrific news made my heart stop waiting for additional news updates, holding off for additional news that I never ever would have thought something like this would happen in my lifetime.

The thought of sports never entered my mind as to who was playing, when the next sporting assignment was or when the next broadcast would take place and at that moment my thoughts were on everyone in New York.

The question many were asking was what was next and where would the next attack take place and could this happen in other cities in Canada and the world.

The USA jumped into action as did cities on the east coast of Canada that saw the US immediately close all airspace that saw Canada welcome 224 International flights. 

The majority of planes destined for  New York and surrounding areas were in Atlantic Canada and were immediately given status to land in the Maritimes, directing them away from all major American cities.

With Canada welcoming around 33,000 passengers this was officially dubbed  as Operation Yellow Ribbon. 

Several airports on the East Coast were immediately put into action including Gander International Airport in Newfoundland that landed 38 flights. 

For a small-town of only 10,000 people in true Canadian fashion  the citizens welcomed over 6,500 in the days that followed.

As we look back on that horrific tragedy we’ll never forget how Canada united and all the hard work that the front line workers did to keep the world safe that had many wondering what could happen next.

As we reflect looking back some 22 years it’s a day that we will never ever forget and are thankful for the professionalism shown by all the dedicated workers who to this day continue to keep us safe from  the act of a deranged group.

Myself and Laird are taking a moment to reflect and give thanks to all who continue to keep us safe!!!!

P.S. (D. Laird Allan)

Twenty two years ago today our world changed forever.  I had been in the RCMP 30 years at that date.  I had seen a lot of tragegy in that time but this moved to the top of the list.  All the weather tradegies we have seen we can understand but this event was man made and was hard to comprehend in peace time.

We take the time to think of and give our thoughts and prayers to all the innocent lost souls and their families and friends in New York, NY, Washington, DC and Pennsylvania 

I have spent 100s of hours on the road at serious events during my duty and have worked alongside all the different emergency personel in every concievable situation.  I commend their action and sacrifice they put forth.

Rememeber that the personal that were going into the darkness in the Twin Towers were trying to save those souls who were searching for the light.  (Do their actions suprise me, no, we are trained that way and have a professional mindset different than most.)

"Stay safe."

Story by Steve Erickson

Controversy continues to surround the move by the BCHL stepping away from Hockey Canada and as much as they (BCHL) have sent out various press releases to the normal hockey fan, it’s confusing.

The reason seems uncertain with both sides but what’s truly confusing is how the players and officials are forced to take a stand which clearly separates the ones who only want to play.  So we are hearing that players are out from any sanctioned games while there seems to be no time line set for the officials.

Minor hockey players are not permitted to take part in the pregame on-ice warm-up but timekeepers are permitted to do any league they want.

Regardless we just released the following press release and we wanted to share which allows you to make your own mind up.

Enjoy the read:

In collaboration with its Members and partner leagues, Hockey Canada has released a document that clarifies significant differences for participants in sanctioned and non-sanctioned hockey programs, including player safety, insurance, eligibility, playing rules, high-performance opportunities and recognition by government.

The document outlines 20 benefits that are available to participants in Hockey Canada-sanctioned programs and are either not provided or not guaranteed with non-sanctioned programs, which all operate without being recognized by government in Canada and are not governed by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).

“With the beginning of the 2023-24 hockey season upon us, we felt it was important and frankly necessary to inform Canadians about the differences between participating in sanctioned and non-sanctioned hockey,” said Darren Cossar, senior vice-president of member engagement. “We hope this document will inform parents and participants of the benefits available to them with membership in sanctioned hockey, and the variance and risks should they choose to participate outside of it.

“For any parents and participants looking to confirm that they have registered for sanctioned hockey and have access to its benefits, we encourage you to reach out to your provincial Member, association or league and ask if they are a member of Hockey Canada.”

All participants in Hockey Canada-sanctioned programs are eligible to be affiliate players and compete in sanctioned hockey tournaments and against teams from other IIHF Member National Associations. 

They can also be selected for national and provincial/territorial high-performance teams, can compete in provincial and national championships, and are entitled to full, standardized insurance coverage. Sanctioned games are officiated by trained and certified officials within the Hockey Canada Officiating Pathway using a standardized rulebook.

In sanctioned hockey, it is a requirement that all coaches, bench staff, trainers and officials undergo a mandatory criminal record check and/or vulnerable sector check and that all coaches, trainers and officials be trained and certified to perform their responsibilities. 

Coaches, officials and staff in sanctioned hockey may also be considered for additional assignments and opportunities, including participation in IIHF events, and the Canadian Hockey League, Canadian Junior Hockey League and Junior A games.

Only participants in sanctioned hockey are eligible to submit confidential complaints of maltreatment, abuse or harassment to the Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner or Hockey Canada’s Independent Third Party.

 Should a player, coach or staff member under suspension in sanctioned hockey move to a non-sanctioned league, it is not guaranteed the suspension would be recognized and upheld.

Any player rostered on a non-sanctioned hockey team after Sept. 30 is ineligible to be rostered in a Hockey Canada-sanctioned league for the remainder of the season, even if they are released by their non-sanctioned team at a later date.

The entire document outlining differences in sanctioned and non-sanctioned hockey can be found here.

Ultimately, Hockey Canada and its Members are tasked with ensuring participants of all ages and abilities can enjoy playing hockey in communities across the country, both recreationally and competitively. 

While we feel strongly that our model for delivering hockey is to the benefit, safety and wellness of players, coaches, officials, parents, administrators and volunteers, we recognize and respect that others remain free to participate in the game outside of sanctioned programs.

Story by Steve Erickson

Starting any new season is an exciting time for any team but for the Richmond Sockeyes skating into their fifty-second season is  one filled with not only excitement but also enthusiasm.

This past summer BC Hockey has reclassified all three Junior B leagues to have their status elevated to Tier 2 Junior A with a three-year window in place to Tier 1 Junior A.

It’s important to know that there are 45 Junior A Tier 2 teams with 20 (KIJHL), 11 (VIJHL) and 14 in the PJHL with the possibility of expansion in the future.

The history of the team dates back to 1972 with Bruce Allison as the original owner with the thought of giving local players a chance to play in their home area as well as stay in school.

One of the current owners Doug Patterson was the team’s first Captain of the Junior B franchise that had success then saw the team status elevated to Junior A  in the PAC League eventually joining the BCJALL.

The off-season saw the loss of Richmond Sockeyes Alumni Ray Sawada who tragically passed away in April that has the upcoming season dedicated to the memory of Ray.

Entering the 2023-24 season is a new look for the team bringing on a new coaching staff from last season with their sights set on not only making the playoffs but pulling out a championship.

While changes were made in the off-season the Sockeye’s thank the previous staff for their work with the team and wish them much success moving forward.

This season Cullen Revel heads the coaching staff with Associate Coach Bob Delorme, along with Assistant Coaches Hardarshan Hoonjan and Spencer Beattie with Sukhjit Sanghera keeping the players healthy.

Training camp started early in July that saw an impressive turnout of players looking to crack the line-up being put through vigorous sessions forcing the coaching staff to make tough decisions.

Decisions on the ice continue to be tough, but one that is welcomed is hearing that Mathew Steward not only returns, but will fill the role of Captain.

His overall playing style of grit, hard work and determination is a choice that the coaches clearly could not overlook

.

This season the Sockeyes have set their sights focused on “Community First” working with various schools and groups to put a first class product on the ice as well as showcase the City of Richmond.

Mini-minor hockey games will continue to be a between period feature that allows young players to be a “Junior Sockeye” along with between period interviews adding to the Sockeye Birthday Club.

The Sockeyes continue to work with Richmond Minor Hockey Association promoting “7th-Man-In” who wears a special jersey and skates a lap in the pre-game ceremony.

Richmond hosts the newest expansion team in the PJHL, the PoCo TrailBlazers in their home opener September 7th with the face-off set for 7 pm.

Upcoming Games:

All games at 7 pm

September 14th Grandview Steelers

September 21st North Van Wolfpack

September 28th Port Moody Panthers