The Nanaimo Clippers opened training camp this week, moving from the off-season to the pre-season.
The Clippers were ready for hockey on Monday, but Frank Crane Arena’s ice surface wasn’t, so the team started skating at Cliff McNabb Arena before they moved over to home ice.
This week has been filled with two-a-day practices Tuesday, Wednesday and today (Sept. 4), with the annual Rhodesie Cup intrasquad game on Friday at 6 p.m. at Frank Crane Arena. The game, held in memory of sportswriter Michael Rhode, is a fundraiser for KidSport.
“We’re very excited to continue holding that…” said Mike Vandekamp, Clippers coach. “It’s been a great event.”
The team goes from scrimmaging right to real competition the next day, as the Victoria Grizzlies will visit Frank Crane on Saturday to begin B.C. Hockey League pre-season play.
“We’ll have a five-game exhibition week, which will be very busy for us,” Vandekamp said. “And we’ll wrap up all of our decision-making and try to have our roster set after that.”
GAME ON … The Clippers’ home pre-season games at Frank Crane Arena are Saturday at 7 p.m. against the Grizzlies, Wednesday (Sept. 10) at 7 p.m. against the Cowichan Valley Capitals and Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. versus the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. For season ticket information, please visit www.nanaimoclippers.com.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com
Snapped some photos at @ClippersHockey training camp today. Looking forward to the season… #Nanaimo #Clippers pic.twitter.com/H2VlHkFmRh
— Greg Sakaki (@BulletinSports) September 3, 2014