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By Pete McIntyre
Uncertainty around 20-21 season

BCHL requests financial aid from province

Apr 22, 2020 | 10:33 AM

The BC Hockey League is seeking financial assistance from the provincial government to offset major losses for its teams due to the shutdown of the league.

BCHL commissioner Chris Heb said in addition to cancelling the final three rounds of its playoffs, their teams haven’t been able to hold spring camps due to the pandemic, which are major source of revenue.

“We have every intention of playing hockey next season, with all 18 of our teams, if we get the green light from Hockey Canada as well as the provincial health authorities,” said Hebb. “But, the reality is we’ve identified potential financial issues down the road due to this pandemic and want to address these problems now.”

Hebb added the league has provided support to its teams through a contingency fund, but more is needed.

“With so much uncertainty heading into next season, teams aren’t able to count on ticket revenue for 2020-21 or the same level of support they are used to receiving from sponsors.”

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“We are seeking the support of the B.C. government and are merely asking for a meeting to explain the economic, social and cultural impact of our teams on the 17 B.C. communities they represent,” said Graham Fraser, Chairman of the BCHL Board of Governors.

The BCHL has gathered letters of support from the mayors in their B.C. markets, as well as the District of Kitimat where the league held its first-ever BCHL Road Show in February.

by Pete McIntyre
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