The North Okanagan Knights Jr. Hockey Club has been granted permission by Armstrong council to boost its advertising on game days and at certain community events.
“We want to increase our profile within the city,” said Bill Burr, president of the club.
The Knights, who have been playing in the junior B league for two seasons, are very involved in the community, often helping out with local events. They would like an exception to be made in the city bylaws to allow them to advertise with a sandwich board at those events.
“We want the kids to understand they have a commitment to the community,” said Burr, which is why they push for greater community involvement.
The value of hockey teams to their respective communities was not lost on the council as they deliberated the decision.
“There was a study done in Kelowna that shows that the Kelowna Rockets bring in significant money to the city,” said Burr.
And it is likely that the Knights create a comparable impact in Armstrong, which is why it will be beneficial for the whole community if the Knights to become as involved said Burr.
The Knights have also introduced a new season ticket policy, one they think will be more accommodating for their fans.
“Our season tickets are not game specific,” said Burr. The team has 26 home games this year, and a season ticket package gets you 26 tickets which can be used any way you like.
“You could take 26 friends to one game if you like,” said Burr.
“We understand 26 games is a big commitment. This way people can be more flexible about which games they go to.”
