The NHL is coming to North Saanich, B.C. on Monday.
The community, located about 25 km north of Victoria on Vancouver Island, was named the winner of Kraft Hockeyville 2015 in April. As a result, it will host a pre-season game between the Vancouver Canucks and San Jose Sharks Monday night at 7:30 p.m. PT.
“We would like to congratulate North Saanich on being awarded Kraft Hockeyville for 2015,” Canucks president Trevor Linden said in an April press release. “Our organization feels very fortunate to have such a passionate fan base and strong following across our home province. We are committed to bringing our team to communities throughout British Columbia and look forward to getting the opportunity to celebrate with and help put on an NHL-calibre game for the community of North Saanich.”
North Saanich’s arena, Panorama Recreation Centre Arena B, will also receive $100,000 in upgrades — including a dedicated home-team locker room at the rink. The town, which has a population of approximately 11,000, is home to brothers and Dallas Stars teammates Jamie and Jordie Benn.
Here’s some more information about the Kraft Hockeyville game, to help you prepare for puck drop:
Origins of Kraft Hockeyville
Now in its ninth year, Kraft Hockeyville is a collaboration between Kraft, the NHL and NHLPA that is committed to investing in community arenas to help keep the game of hockey alive and thriving across Canada.
As part of the annual contest and celebration, the runner-up (Chatham Memorial Arena) also receives $100,000 in arena upgrades; $25,000 is awarded to each of the remaining eight prize winners.
Learn more about Kraft Hockeyville on their website.
When: Monday, September 21, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. PT
Where: Though North Saanich and its local rink, Panorama Recreation Centre Arena B, is Kraft Hockeyville’s official winner, the game itself will be played at the Q Centre in nearby Colwood.
Who is taking part: Vancouver Canucks vs. San Jose Sharks.
What: This matchup between division rivals will be the first pre-season game for both teams. Fans can get a first glimpse of the teams’ rosters, including possible lineup combinations — all in a small-town rink atmosphere.
How can I watch the game?
Hockey fans across the country can watch the live broadcast on Sportsnet and Sportsnet One at 7:30 p.m. PT (10:30 p.m. ET).
Who else will be there?
Ron MacLean and Don Cherry will be on site, and the game and will include a special edition of Coach’s Corner.
How else can I follow the game?
In addition to the live broadcast on Sportsnet and Sportsnet One, fans can also follow the action on Kraft Hockeyville’s Facebook page, on Twitter (@hockeyville) and right here on Sportsnet.ca.
