The regular season officially kicks off this weekend for the Big Valley Oil Kings of the Battle River Hockey League.
On Saturday, make your way to the Agriplex for some great senior hockey action, as the Kings welcome the Irma Aces for the season-opener. The warmup is set for 7 p.m., with the puck drop at 7:30 p.m.
The Oil Kings will then head to Tofield for a Sunday evening game against the Satellites at 5:45 p.m.
The Big Valley roster for the upcoming season is being finalized, and it’s looking very promising. The Muhlbach family will be well-represented this season, with the three brothers — Brett, Derek, and Dylan — all suiting up.
Brett Muhlbach was the Oil Kings’ leading scorer in 2011-12 and a BRHL MVP candidate last season.
The Oil Kings have also welcomed last year’s Stettler Lightning junior B leading scorer Brett Ouellette, fellow Lightning graduate Mitch Finkbiner and former Three Hills Thrashers captain Matt Wildeman from the junior ranks.
Newly acquired winger Jayson Shmyrko, who spent time with the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors, will fit in with returning veterans Justin Tremmel, Dave Sissons and Devan Shanks.
On the blue-line, former WHLer Landon Jones returns for a second season. Joining Jones will be former CIS and AJHL star Andrew Gilbert, rookie Denver Wik and returning local boy Danny Houston.
It’s sure to be an exciting start to the season, so don’t miss any of it.
The Elks October meeting was held in spite of the snow dump and Brother Larry Meyer gave a rundown on the Fraternal Elk sojourn to visit the Red Deer Elks. Several southern Elks were able to make it, as well. Thanks to the Delburne Elks for their driver and the use of their lodge bus.
Arrangements have been made to purchase playground equipment to replace the wooden structure that was removed from the children’s park this year. Disbursements are being made to the Valley Whistle, both the Rumsey and Big Valley children’s Christmas parties and two squares are being purchased to assist in the Oil Kings’ fundraising.
It looks like the senior hockey organizers are icing an excellent product. With the NHL in limbo, let’s get out and support these guys.
On Friday, Dec. 7, the Elks will host a supper and entertainment evening with the Country Blend band from Manitoba. Supper will be at 6:30 p.m., with the show to follow.
The Royal Purple held their meeting on Thursday, Oct. 24. The Honoured Royal Lady Myra Greig opened the meeting at 8:00 p.m. with 9 ladies present. The ladies were pleased to present Brooke Skocdopole with this year’s Royal Purple Continuing Education Scholarship. The ladies will be helping at the Elk’s Turkey Bingos in Rumsey on December 5 and in Big Valley on December 12. There are plans for a New Year’s Eve Gala, including supper, a hypnotist and dance on December 31. For more information contact any Royal Purple Lady. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 27.