The Nanaimo Clippers and the Victoria Grizzlies will take the ice as two grouchy teams on Wednesday (Sept. 29), which could make for some good, physical hockey.
Neither the Clips (1-3-0-1) nor the Grizz (2-3-0-1) have started the B.C. Hockey League season the way they want and both will be dying to earn two points against an Island rival.
"We've got to come thirsty and wanting more. Come with a purpose," said Victor Newell, Clippers defenceman. "We've got to turn this ship around."
For the Grizzlies, it will be their first time back at Frank Crane Arena since being eliminated by the Shipmen in the first round of the playoffs last March.
Another Clippers D-man, Graeme McCormack, played in that decisive Game 6 for Victoria, and now he'll face his old team for the first time wearing orange and black.
"It's going to be a distraction with the people I used to play with, but it's hockey, nothing's personal," McCormack said.
He said he's "absolutely" been looking forward to Wednesday's tilt.
"Anyone wants to play against a team they got traded from," he said. "It'll be good to see those guys again and maybe score some goals."
GAME ON … The Clippers and Grizzlies face off at 7:10 p.m. Wednesday at Frank Crane Arena … Tickets will be available at the door …Clippers sponsor 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will be collecting non-perishable food items at the game for Loaves and Fishes. Anyone helping the cause will be entered into a draw to win a night out at the Firehouse Grill.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com