Everyone loves a winner.
The old saying couldn’t be more true for the Prince George Cougars who are winning just as much on the business side as they are on the ice.
According to the Western Hockey League, the Cougars led the league in increased attendance, enjoying a 29% year-over-year spike, going from 2,755 in 2022-23 to 3,519 in 24-24.
In addition, season memberships have also risen by 43% over the same period, exceeding pre-COVID levels.
PG finished with a regular season mark of 49-15-1-3 securing the top spot in the Western Conference for the first time since moving from Victoria three decades ago.
The Cougars also earned their second BC Division banner – their first since 2016-17.
Loge seating space at the CN Centre was once again high in demand with 40 premium seats sold out in 2023-24 while suites at the arena were sold out during the regular season, resulting in a waiting list for next season.
Theme nights such as Community Heroes Weekend, Teddy Bear Toss, Indigenous Night and Pink In the Rink were once again big hits with fans.
Lastly, corporate sponsors in Northern B.C. have responded to the Cougars’ historic season, resulting in a 74-per-cent increase in overall corporate sponsorship sales year-over-year.
As a result, PG is one of four franchises nominated for the WHL Business Award.
The other three are the Portland Winterhawks, Saskatoon Blades and Edmonton Oil Kings.
The 2024 WHL Awards will be announced from Tuesday, April 30th through Thursday, May 9th.
For a full list of records and accomplishments this season for the Cats, click here.
Presenting the B.C. Division nominee for the WHL Business Award, the @PGCougars!
— The WHL (@TheWHL) April 2, 2024