The BCHL Board of Governors held its semi-annual meeting on Jan. 23 and approved a new configuration for the 2020-21 season.
Realignment
With the expansion Cranbrook Bucks beginning their inaugural campaign next year, the Board voted in favour of changing to a two-conference system with nine teams on each side.
The Coastal Conference will consist of the current Island and Mainland Division teams, minus the Prince George Spruce Kings, while the Interior Conference will see Cranbrook added as well as Prince George.
“Having two 9-team conferences ultimately made the most sense for our league” said Bulldogs club president David Michaud. “Financially it increases the operating budget for our club slightly, but going this route was the best decision for the great good of the BCHL in the long-term.”
Schedule
The league has also announced that it is moving from a 58-game schedule to 54, as well as a later start date in September.
“Training camps will now open in early September and get us out of August all together. This will be a great move for not only our players, but our fans as well.” said Michaud. “Moving to a 54 game schedule was the right thing to do for our players. 3 games in 3 nights will be greatly reduced by this initiative.”
From a financial stand point, the Bulldogs decided to keep season ticket prices flat instead of raising prices for 2020-2021. “While our fans will have two fewer games at the Multiplex, the quality of our schedule will be enhanced with more games on prime nights when our fans want to be in attendance. Reducing the schedule by two games, lessened some of the financial cost associated with the switch to a two conference format. We’re excited that we didn’t have to change our pricing to make the budget work for next year.” said Michaud.
Season Memberships are now on sale for the 2020-2021 season. Anyone purchasing or renewing before March 27th is automatically entered in a draw for a trip for two to Las Vegas to see a Golden Knights game next season.
Tickets for playoff home game 1 & 2 are also on sale now. Visit the Bulldogs office to learn more.
