Calgary, Alberta: Today, the Calgary Canucks Junior Hockey Booster Club operating as the Calgary Canucks Junior A Hockey team announced that they have committed to playing their 2019-20 season in Calgary at the Max Bell Centre. The announcement comes after months of speculation and concern that the team would fold or relocate to another market.
The team is also announcing the appointment of Arthur Yasinski as the new President and Chairman of the Board, replacing Bill Andrew who will remain involved as Past-President and one of the Directors. Mr. Yasinski grew up in northern Alberta, went to the University of Alberta in Edmonton, and lived in Calgary before relocating to the Seattle area. He is a long-time employee with Microsoft Corporation, and brings a unique combination of big business experience and small town values to our leadership team. Given the volunteer nature of the position, he will remain in Seattle but will travel to Calgary as necessary.
“I am honoured to join such a storied franchise, and to work with the other volunteer members of the Board.”, said Mr. Yasinski. “In going through this process, it has been very inspiring to see the passion and dedication from so many. It will be an exciting few months as we prepare for the upcoming season and assemble a team of talented young men. I look forward to working with the Board, and with community leaders to grow the attendance and support of Calgary Canucks junior hockey.”
Bill Andrew added “As we enter our 49th season, we are excited to do so with a solid capital base to build from. We have added strong leadership experience and fresh perspective to our Board, and I would like to welcome Arthur as our Chairman. On the ice, we are equally excited to share that we hope to have over 15 players returning to our camp from last year, and we expect a full contingent of players vying for our 23 roster spots. Having stability within the franchise will allow these young athletes to focus on their hockey experience, as well as their studies and community contributions.”
The first camp is set for June 7-9, with registration information published online at CalgaryCanucks.ca and also shared via social media. Details on season tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the 2019-20 season will be made available shortly. Individuals are encouraged to sign up for the team newsletter online to stay up-to-date on all the upcoming changes.
About the Calgary Canucks: Founded in 1971, the Calgary Canucks are one of the most storied franchises in Canadian Junior A hockey. They have the longest tenure of any team in the AJHL in one city, with 48 years in the Stampede City. Over the years they have won 9 championships, had over 300 college scholarships granted, and have seen numerous alumni who went on to the NHL.
