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'Crazy in the best way possible': Oliver buzzing over new Junior A hockey team
Close to 60 players will compete for roster spots as the expansion club prepares for its first season in the Western International Junior Hockey League.
On Aug. 28, nearly 60 players report to District Arena for Oliver Outlaws training camp, vying for roster spots on the expansion Junior A team in the newly-formed Western International Junior Hockey League.
Head coach and general manager Gushue, 30, arrives after two successful seasons leading Ontario's Dryden Ice Dogs, tasked with building the inaugural roster for the new franchise.
Owners Rod Hume and John Murphy, who control the West Kelowna Warriors, will host home games at District Arena, recently renovated through a $3.8-million rehabilitation project by the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen.
Gushue expects strong community backing, stating "The buzz around the community is fantastic," with plans for players to volunteer at the food bank and visit the seniors' centre.
The Outlaws open their 44-game regular season on Sept. 18 against the Kelowna Chiefs, competing in the South Division alongside Castlegar, Creston Valley, and Spokane in the inaugural WIJHL season.