Sunday, December 13, 2009

Battle of Ontario

Press Release

Fans and scouts can once again expect two great games of hockey on January 2, 2010 when the Pembroke Lumber Kings host the 2010 Battle of Ontario.

The day will be comprised of two marquee events - a "Young Stars" game with the top 16 and 17-year-old prospects from the CJHL and the CCHL showcasing their talents in front of scouting operations from the CHL, NCAA, NHL, CIS in a competitive setting unlike any traditional All-Star game. The evening match up will feature the best 18 to 20 year old (1990-1989 born) players from the CJHL and the CCHL.

With over half of the players already committed to NCAA programs, or on the radar of NHL scouts, the caliber of play will be outstanding. These leagues represent the majority of players named to both Team Canada East at the World Junior Challenge and Team East in the Prospects Challenge.

The CJHL and CCHL have both taken leadership roles in forging an exciting future for Junior A hockey. With the focus on player development and advancement along with a priority on academic opportunities, both groups have been widely recognized in collegiate and professional ranks as a viable path to higher levels of hockey.

By stressing education, both leagues have attracted more young players moving up the ladder and refrained from the practice of ignoring development which has plagued the level historically and continues to be practiced elsewhere.

The Commissioner of the CJHL, Kevin Abrams stated; "It is exciting to once again host the Battle of Ontario in Hockey Town Canada. The community of Pembroke ranks among Canada's best hockey cities and their support is overwhelming for events such as this.

Complete rosters will be announced on Saturday, December 12, 2009 along with management staff for the event.

Single game tickets will be selling for $10 (Adults) and a two-game package for $15. Purchase locations in both regions for advance ticket sales will be announced soon.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

any word on when the teams will be announced?