The GW Graham Grizzlies have grown accustomed to playing at BC Place Stadium this time of year with a provincial title on the line. It is a special situation that is being diluted by this year’s playoff format.
The Grizzlies are there this weekend for a quarter-final against Holy Cross (Surrey) and could potentially play under the dome three times before this season is done.
The novelty of walking in on Championship Saturday — staring at the massive scoreboard, massive roof and 55,000+ seats — that’s diminished.
“It’s a little frustrating because we worked hard this season to host home games and we love playing at Exhibition,” said GWG coach Laurie Smith. “But, we knew the semi-finals were going to be at BC Place, which we thought was a good thing.”
“We played the semi at UBC last year and the conditions were terrible with ice and snow, and the games weren’t well played.”
From a football point of view, Smith looks forward to climate controlled comfort and no interference from Mother Nature.
“We know one thing right? We can throw the ball,” Smith noted. “I’ll take our chances with Gabe Olivares throwing.”
“I feel like we’re going to be in a heckuva battle, but if we execute the way we can we’ve got the guys to win this game.”
Other playoff matchups this weekend include Abby Collegiate vs John Barsby, Carson Graham vs Prince George and Langley vs Vernon.
