Sign up for the battlefordsNOW newsletter

Wilkie Outlaws send encouragement for Fernie B.C.

Jan 25, 2018 | 9:00 AM

The Wilkie Outlaws of the Sask. West Hockey League have joined the growing list of communities and organizations in our local area that are supporting a city over 800 km away in its bid to win Kraft Hockeyville (KHV) 2018.

The City of Fernie B.C. garnered national attention last October when three maintenance workers were killed following an ammonia leak at the city’s arena, forcing it to shutdown Fernie Memorial Arena and disrupting not only the local sports teams that use the facility, but the community as a whole.

Should Fernie win the competition the community would receive $150,000 in arena upgrades and an opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game.

Derek Keller of the Wilkie Outlaws said it was the right thing to do for his hockey team who know what it’s like to lose their arena.

“We have been exactly where they are right now,” said Keller. “When the fire in 2015 forced the closure of our rink, it not only forced us (Wilkie Outlaws) out of our home for the better part of a year, but it also disrupted minor hockey and other groups and organization who used the facility on a daily basis.”

Fernie’s plight caught the attention of the Wilkie Kraft Hockeyville committee who had intended to make a bid for the distinction for their arena. However, the group decided to throw it support behind Fernie.

“It was really a no-brainer for us to support our hockey family in Fernie,” added Keller. “We as a team have sent a video of support to the KHV website and when it comes to vote we will certainly do our part to help them win the grand prize.”

Keller also encouraged other local teams and organizations to show encouragement to Fernie for Kraft Hockeyville.

To add your support for Fernie B.C. for Kraft Hockeyville 2018, follow this link and submit a nomination before Feb. 11.   

 

roger.white@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @RJWtheReporter