The Quesnel Millionaires have a new slogan for the 2009/10 season: New Direction, New Energy. Just as importantly, the British Columbia Hockey League club has a new group of owners eager to follow through on that promise for years to come.
Earlier this week, the BCHL's Board of Governors approved the sale of the franchise from a community-operated society to a local investment group of longtime Millionaires supporters.
The transfer was completed after a lengthy planning and review process that was approved following a presentation to the BCHL’s Board of Governors.
“On behalf of the British Columbia Hockey League and its Board of Governors, I would like to welcome the new ownership group of the Quesnel Millionaires,” BCHL Commissioner John Grisdale said. “Committed local ownership is a hallmark of a successful junior hockey franchise, and I’m certain that this announcement signals a positive long-term step for the Millionaires organization and their fans.”
Grisdale's enthusiasm towards the move is echoed by incoming Millionaires governor Bob Sales.
“We are very excited to be a contributing partner to the BCHL and look forward to working with the league moving forward,” said Sales. “On behalf of the entire organization, I wish to thank the league and our fellow governors for their tremendous support throughout this process.”
“This is an exciting time for the City of Quesnel and our franchise and we are honoured to be a member of the best Junior A hockey league in Canada”
At the media conference announcing the sale, the Millionaires also confirmed incoming future considerations from two previous trades.
Defenceman Brad Ryan is joining the team from the Calgary Canucks to complete January's deal for Mitchell Smith, while forward Mitch Cain comes onboard from the Fort Francis Jr. Sabres to wrap a trade that had sent Kenny Carpenter and Darren Ezelyk eastwards.
