The BCHL Board of Governors has approved the sale of the Surrey Eagles to local businessmen Ron and TJ Brar.
The two brothers will immediately take over operation of the team, after purchasing from outgoing Eagles owner Chuck Westgard.
“My brother and I were born and raised in Surrey and that’s where our passion for hockey first started,” said Ron Brar. “Our love for community and family has always played a significant role in our lives. The Surrey Eagles will allow us to continue to grow and to give back to our cherished community.”
The Brars currently own and operate Evergreen Herbs, a Surrey-based business that has grown into a leading provider of fresh herbs and vegetables to grocery stores across the country.
“We want to encompass our priorities around hockey, academics, community and most importantly, building new leaders,” said TJ Brar. “We are grateful to Chuck Westgard and the BCHL family for allowing us to be a part of the best junior hockey program in Canada.”
The new ownership will continue to operate the team out of the South Surrey Arena.
“The last 12 years as owner of the Surrey Eagles has been quite a ride,” said Westgard. “From the first season in 2010-2011, the RBC Cup in 2013, right through this final season, our goal has always been the same. We wanted to provide a safe and enjoyable place to live and play for all of our players, and to provide the best coaching possible to give them every opportunity to chase their dreams in the sport they love. Most importantly, we wanted the players to develop as individuals to become contributing members of society.”
“The time has come to hand the team over to a new ownership group, full of energy and enthusiasm, to continue the proud tradition of the Surrey Eagles. I am confident the Brar brothers will carry forward that tradition well into the future.”
The BCHL Board of Governors unanimously approved the sale after a vote over the weekend.
“The BCHL Board of Governors are excited to welcome Ron and TJ Brar as the new owners of the Surrey Eagles,” said Graham Fraser, Chairman of the Board. “The Eagles have a rich history in our league since arriving in 1991 and we are confident that the new ownership group will continue this legacy.”
“We would also like to extend our appreciation to Chuck Westgard who has been a great asset to our league in his 12 years as owner of the team. We wish him nothing but the best going forward.”
