Photo credit: David Stevens
The BCHL is coming back to Burns Lake, B.C. for the second time in three years for the junior league’s Road Show event Feb. 14 and 15 at Tom Forsyth Memorial Arena.
Co-hosted by the Lake Babine Nation, the event sees the Prince George Spruce Kings, the BCHL’s northern-most team, taking on the Coquitlam Express in two regular season contests.
“This is a great opportunity to show the young people what is possible to get ahead in sports,” said Lake Babine Nation Chief Wilf Adam. “It’s a time where all residents of the Burns Lake area are able to learn about each other and work together. We want to show the north that we are a great community with great talent.”
The weekend’s itinerary also includes a number of community initiatives, including school visits, hockey camps, a gala hosted by Lake Babine Nation, and appearances by Vancouver Canucks alumnus Geoff Courtnall.
The two teams also happen to be in a tight race for top spot in their division, with Prince George two points ahead, but Coquitlam has one game in hand.
But according to both teams, the four points up for grab in the standings is not the only important part of this weekend.
“The Road Show is about far more than just hockey for the Prince George Spruce Kings,” said team General Manager and Governor Mike Hawes. “It’s a chance for us to connect with the community, inspire young athletes and take part in meaningful engagement with Indigenous partners. Being welcomed into a host community like Burns Lake allows our players and staff to learn, listen and participate in the ongoing journey of reconciliation, which is an important responsibility for our organization and our league.”
“This event is an incredible opportunity to bring our league and our teams directly into communities like Burns Lake,” said Tali Campbell, President and General Manager of the Express. “Our players and staff are excited to be part of something that goes beyond the rink — connecting with fans, inspiring young hockey players and experiencing the passion this community has for the game. We’re grateful to the Lake Babine Nation and everyone involved for welcoming us back and making this event possible.”
This is the fourth time the BCHL has hosted the Road Show event. It debuted in 2020 in Kitimat, then in Burns Lake for the first time in February of 2023. The most recent edition took place in November 2023 in Quesnel.
Tickets are selling fast, so fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets ahead of time to guarantee their seat.
Schedule:
Saturday, Feb. 14: Prince George Spruce Kings @ Coquitlam Express – 7 p.m. PST
Sunday, Feb. 15: Coquitlam Express @ Prince George Spruce Kings – 1 p.m. PST
*All games at Tom Forsyth Memorial Arena in Burns Lake
