Support for the Princeton Posse has shown itself incredulously over the past couple of weeks. The community has rallied, answering the call for billet housing for players and volunteers to man the events and games.
“I’m just blown away by the support,” said Dean Johnston, president of the Princeton Posse.
Johnston and the new board of directors have come forward with fresh ideas and look forward to an exciting future for the team.
The team is lead by general manager/head coach Bill Rotheisler. Assisting Rotheisler are assistant coaches, Mark McNaughton and Dave Clare.
The season opener as well as home opener started on Friday, Sept. 13 with the tailgate party at the Princeton Arena.
The Kettle Valley Switchmen provided the party ambiance with rockin’ blues while the crowd enjoyed the refreshment garden, steak and prawn dinner by Billy’s Family Restaurant and smokies served up by Barbara Bushewsky.
With game time on the horizon fans lined up out the door to get their stamp and seats before 7 p.m.
Hockey bells to help make some noise were passed out by ladies from Valley First Credit Union - a much appreciated corporate sponsor of the Posse.
Just before the game start, Posse president Dean Johnston stepped out onto the ice to take care of some unfinished business from the prior season. He then presented Kurtis Klinger with the KIJHL Player of the Month Award he won in February.
Johnston also extended his appreciation to the people providing billet homes and to all the volunteers and sponsors that have come forward this season.
First Posse goal was scored by Jon Thompson, assisted by Eric Schmidt and Devan Suidy. Second goal via Eric Schmidt with assists from Jon Thompson and Devan Suidy.
Kelowna Chiefs made their first goal of the evening with Jordan Salahor, assisted by Nick Josephs and Alex Fortin.
First period ends with third goal by Posse—Eric Kubis assisted by Kurtis Klinger.
Second period sees the Chiefs score unassisted by Nick Gnazdowsky and then an unassisted goal by Posse Josh Mack.
Minutes later the Chiefs hike up to a score of three via Jaeger Bowles assisted by Nick Josephs and Jordon Salahor. Not enough to catch the Posse - Final score Princeton Posse 4 / Kelowna Chiefs 3.
On Saturday the 14, the Posse hosted the North Okanagan Nights. The game went in to double overtime, with North Okanagan Nights breaking the tie score of 3 - 3.
Final Scores of the evening; North Okanagan Nights 4 / Princeton Posse 3.