Hockey Fest is back this weekend at the SOFMC
After collecting two points in a weekend series with the Tri-City Americans, the homestand continues in Victoria as the Royals look to keep things rolling against the Spokane Chiefs this weekend. Friday January 9th marks the first of the back-to-back series with puck drop slated for 7:05 pm.
Saturday January 10th is Hockey Fest at Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre presented by Peninsula Co-op. The activities kick off at 1:00 pm with a hot stove in the Lions Den Restaurant with Canucks Alumni Stan Smyl, Kirk McLean and mascot Fin.
The Canucks will provide an Every Kids Dream gift certificate to go along with the hot stove event on January 10th. One attendee will win two tickets to a game and have their child (aged 9-14) stand on the blue line with the Canucks during the National Anthem. If you have not already you can reserve your free seat to the event here.
Following the hot stove there will be a party in the plaza at Gate 1 at 2:00 pm. There will be music, NHL street mini sticks and mascots Cooper from the Co-op and Fin from the Canucks in the plaza. The Peninsula Co-op will be giving away 1000 thunder sticks at Gate 1 at doors along with a $500 gift card in game.
With two exciting matchups and a full slate of hockey-focused fun, it’s shaping up to be a can’t-miss weekend in Victoria. The Royals look to build momentum on home ice while fans of all ages are invited to take part in the Hockey Fest excitement.
Team Matchup
It’s hard to imagine a closer game than the first meeting this season between the Royals and the Spokane Chiefs. The late November clash at Spokane’s Numerica Veterans Arena saw the shots tied at 27 and both teams held scoreless on the power play, ending in a 2-1 overtime win for the Chiefs. The Royals will look for revenge this weekend, this time on home ice.
Spokane (19-19-0-0) is fourth in the U.S. Division and are the only team in the WHL to have not lost in overtime yet this season. While their 23rd-ranked power play suggests they are not quite the offensive titans they were last season, the Spokane Chiefs have the ability to catch opponents by surprise and lock things down on defence. This matchup carries a history of close games and explosive action.
Players to Watch
Victoria
Hayden Moore – A consistent contributor since being acquired by the Royals from Wenatchee last season, Moore collected his 13th multi-point game of the season on Sunday afternoon, tallying a pair of goals on the way to a 5-1 win over the Tri-City Americans. The 19-year-old centre from Winnipeg is second in scoring among Royals this year with 14 goals and 38 points.
Spokane
Logan Wormald – Acquired via trade from the Lethbridge Hurricanes in December, Logan Wormald has a reputation as high-output forward in the Western Hockey League. Currently in his fifth year in the WHL, Wormald put up 30 goals for a total of 70 points in 57 games last season. A strong shooter with a high level of play at both ends of the ice, the Langley-born forward is always one to keep an eye on.
What’s Next
On January 31st, the Royals are set to host the Red Deer Rebels for the first ever Salmon Kings night at SOFMC. Fans are encouraged to wear their Salmon Kings Merchandise from the early 2000’s. The team will throw back Salmon Kings jerseys that will be auctioned off post game. Get your tickets here.
