For the first time in 14 years, Penticton will host the Vancouver Canucks' training camp.
The NHL club announced Friday, July 12, that it is coming to the Peach City from Sept. 19 to 22, for the annual pre-season event.
Although the Canucks' Young Stars Classic comes to Penticton annually, the team hasn't brought its full roster for training camp since 2010.
“Staying in Penticton for training camp following Young Stars makes perfect sense for our organization,” said Jim Rutherford, the team's president of hockey operations. "The facilities are first class, the fans in the Interior are very passionate and the players, coaches and staff really enjoy what the city and region has to offer."
All on-ice sessions will take place at the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC), home of the BCHL's Penticton Vees.
Besides daily skates, the Canucks will play a "Blue vs. White" scrimmage on Sunday, Sept. 22.
Vancouver's practice sessions will also be open to the public, the team said.
"Our hockey club is committed to growing the game province-wide and we really enjoy taking our camp to different cities in British Columbia," Rutherford added.
"We look forward to connecting with our fan base in the Okanagan and using these on-ice sessions to set the standard and put in place the structure needed for the start of another season.”
The Young Stars Classic — confirmed to return to Penticton for the third straight year — will precede the Canucks' training camp.
It will take place at the SOEC from Sept. 13 to 16 and welcome top prospects from the Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers and Winnipeg Jets.
“The City of Penticton is thrilled to be able to welcome the Vancouver Canucks to town for training camp as they prepare for what will be an exciting season,” said Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “We are a passionate hockey community and the addition of the camp, following the Young Stars Tournament, is tremendous news."
More information about access to Vancouver's training camp will be released at a future date.
Along with Penticton, the Canucks have held their held training camp in communities across B.C. since 1974, including Abbotsford, Courtenay, Duncan, Kamloops, Parksville, Powell River, Prince George, Vernon, Victoria, and Whistler.
“This camp is a fantastic way to celebrate our partnership with the Canucks, which has spanned over a decade, and gives our community a unique opportunity to see NHL players in action, showcasing world-class hockey right here in the Okanagan," said Dean Clarke, general manager of the SOEC.
"Hosting such prestigious events highlights our facility and Penticton’s charm, and we eagerly anticipate the energy and excitement they will bring."
