The Kootenay International Hockey League has announced an expansion franchise has been awarded to the community of Merritt.
It was announced today (Sunday) the Merritt Centennials would be leaving the BCHL and joining the KIJHL for the 2024-25 season.
“The Centennials have a rich history and this year celebrated their 51st consecutive season of continuous junior hockey in the City of Merritt,” said KIJHL commissioner Jeff Dubois.
“[Owners] Brad [Anstey] and Daniel [Schofield]have a great vision for a successful and sustainable KIJHL, and our Board of Governors was thrilled to see the tremendous support that exists within the community for a transition to our league.”
The team will continue to play out of the 1,000-seat Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.
The Centennials will replace the Summerland Steam in the Bill Ohlhausen Division, following their relocation to Williams Lake.
In the BCHL this season, the Centennials finished 6th in the league’s Interior Division, with a record of 22-26-5-1.
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