With 40 players competing for 23 spots on the Powell River Kings roster for the 2017/2018 BC Hockey League (BCHL) season, it is an exciting time for head coach Kent Lewis. Kings opened training camp at Hap Parker Arena on August 21.
“Generally at this time of year you're always excited, but I've been around long enough to know what I have,” said Lewis, who is entering his 23rd season with the Kings organization. “Somebody said, 'Are you going to be good?' We're always good; we have to be better than good.'”
Kings advanced to the second round of BCHL playoffs last season and lost a best-of-seven series four games to three in a thrilling Island Division final against Victoria Grizzlies.
“We have a very focused crew coming in,” said Lewis. “It showed in fitness tests and the first days of camp have been very good. We're going to have some tough decisions to make.”
Lewis said the Kings look like a well-rounded team this year.
“We do lose some heavy hitters from last year, but you lose heavy hitters every year,” he said. “We're also counting on the best years from a lot of players. We have some kids who have not achieved what they need to achieve at this level and they need to achieve it this year.”
Kings are on the road for three exhibition this weekend against Island Division rivals Alberni Valley Bulldogs, Victoria Grizzlies and Cowichan Valley Capitals.
