KIJHL image

By Pete McIntyre

Junior hockey

New owner for KIJHL team, busy off-season continues

May 2, 2024 | 4:15 PM

The Kelowna Chiefs franchise in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League has been sold to Kelowna businessman Darren Tymchyshyn.

The deal has been approved by the Junior A league’s board of governors.

Tymchyshyn, a former player with the Kelowna Spartans of the BCJHL in the 1990s, said it’s been a dream of his to own a Junior A team for some time, after buying the club from Jason Tansem.

“The opportunity to acquire a franchise with the passionate fans, volunteers and sponsors the Chiefs possess was something I couldn’t pass up,” Tymchyshyn said.

“I guarantee to work hard to ensure local players will want to play close to home in front of our loyal fans. Rutland is a passionate hockey community that has embraced the Chiefs and I look forward to building on this success and pride.

B.C. Supreme Court

Crown calls for 7-9 year prison term for Vernon 'wine bottle' manslaughter

11h ago

Rutland Area Sexual Assault

Kelowna RCMP searching for person of interest in sexual assault case

11h ago

Familiarization Tour Day

Tourism Vernon and city strengthening relations to better serve visitors

13h ago

The team will continue to play their home games at the Rutland Arena and is looking for a new head coach and general manager.

“The KIJHL is excited to have Darren join our league as the owner of the Kelowna Chiefs and help continue the great tradition of KIJHL hockey in the Central Okanagan,” KIJHL commissioner Jeff Dubois said.

“Darren is highly motivated to continue the great work of previous owners Grant Sheridan and Jason Tansem, and ensure the Chiefs have a successful and sustainable program at the Junior A level for years to come.”

It’s been an eventful off-season for the KIJHL. The North Okanagan Knights earlier relocated to Quesnel to become the River Rush, while the Summerland Steam moved to Williams Lake.

The Merritt Centennials left the BCHL after 51 years, to join the KIJHL.