It’s finally a game day back in the West Kootenay’s as the Smoke Eaters begin their pre-season against none other than the Cranbrook Bucks in a weekend home and home series.
PRESEASON SCHEDULE
Sep. 24 Cranbrook 7:00 pm PDT
Sep. 25 at Cranbrook 7:00 pm MDT (6pm PDT)
Sep. 30 Wenatchee 7:00 pm PDT
Oct. 2 Cranbrook 7:00 pm PDT
Oct. 4 National Women’s Team 7:00 pm PDT (SOLD OUT)
It was a welcomed break after a long season for the Smoke Eaters and their coaching staff. Now Tim Fragle starts to prepare his team on what everyone hopes is a normal BCHL Season. Fan’s will get to see some of the changes the Smoke Eaters made during the offseason make their debut. With a plethora of new signings the Smoke Eaters bring a mix of returning players as well as new recruits that are sure to quickly make fans fall in love with them. With it being game one of the preseason expect to see a mix of lines and a bit of rust on both sides.
The Bucks and head coach Ryan Donald come in with a similar position to the Smoke Eaters, a mix or returning guys and new recruits, as they hope to finally play a full BCHL season. The Bucks are in a unique position as a expansion side, being able to use the 20 game pod season as a chance to develop players internally before their real test of a full BCHL season with playoffs gets underway. The opportunity they had to evaluate their team with nothing to play for, other than pride, as an expansion team should set them up well for the coming season.
Tickets are still available for tonight’s game with tickets just $5.00. Limited capacity is in place. Should you wish to pick your seat you can buy online ahead of time at tickets.trailsmokeeaters.com. All tickets bought at the door will be pre-assigned seating.
Tonight’s game will also be available to watch on BCHLTV (also known as HockeyTV) or listen FREE on Mixlr starting at 6:45pm with Ben Phillips.
