The Victoria Grizzlies will take on the Cowichan Capitals in Sooke for the annual fundraising game hosted by the Sooke Rotary Club. (contributed)

The Victoria Grizzlies will take on the Cowichan Capitals in Sooke for the annual fundraising game hosted by the Sooke Rotary Club. (contributed)

Junior A hockey coming to Sooke

Exhibition game helps the Rotary Club to help community youth

  • Aug. 23, 2019 12:00 a.m.

Junior A hockey is returning to Sooke for a special exhibition game to help raise funds for the Rotary Club of Sooke.

On Sat., Aug. 31 the Victoria Grizzlies will take on the Cowichan Capitals at the SEAPARC Leisure Complex for a game that is sure to be entertaining.

“We’ll be the first to use the ice this season,” said the past president and current club administrator, John Topolniski

“After that, the season starts for midget hockey in Sooke and the arena will be hopping for the rest of the season.”

The Rotarians have been hosting Junior A hockey in Sooke for 21 years and Topolniski explained that the funds raised go a long way in supporting the club’s work with youth in the District of Sooke.

“Our program is really designed to help the youth,” he said.

RELATED: Rotary support literacy

“The money we raise goes to help support the Girl Guides, the Scouts, KidSport, and other programs, all aimed at our young people.”

In addition to the direct funding of those programs, the Rotary Club supports a literacy program and funds ore than $8,000 in annual scholarships toward higher education.

The exhibition game also provides Sooke residents to see high-quality hockey at a very affordable price.

“We keep the ticket prices low so that everyone can come out and enjoy the game,” said Topolniski.

Adults are only $10, and youth can see the game for the paltry price of $5.

“Remember that this is a very good brand of hockey. Last year three f the Grizzlies were picked up by the NHL, so we’re looking at players who are just a step away from the pros. You’re not going to see hockey like this at a lower price. Not anywhere.”

Doors open for the game at 1:15 p.m. and the puck will drop at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available at SEAPARC, Shoppers Drug Mart and at the door on game day.

There will be door prizes, concessions for those all-important snacks and beverages, and a lot of cheering for whichever team folks are supporting.

“This is great fun for a good cause. It’s affordable and we hope the whole family comes out for the game,” said Topolniski.

He added that the Sooke Rotarians are always on the lookout for new members. The club meets once a week.

“It’s a great way to give back to the community and to support the young people of Sooke.”


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