The Castlegar Rebels hosted their Annual General Meeting, on May 16. The meeting, held at the Sandman Inn attracted about 25 attendees.
President Jim Craig reported that “Castlegar should be very proud to be home of one of the most respected franchises in the KIJHL. This season the Rebels accomplished a feat that has not been duplicated for almost 18 years, and that was the winning of the KIJHL championship, and a bronze medal at the Cyclone Taylor Cup.”
“Our primary goal is to develop young men through the game of hockey while providing family entertainment for the people of Castlegar.
“This year we were able to accomplish something that we had been striving to do for the last 18 years. To achieve this we required a strong combination of support, both on and off the ice. In this regard we are very appreciative of the dedication and the strong work ethic of those who provided this support; the coaching staff, and our directors and volunteers who not only provide entertaining, competitive hockey but also maintain this viable franchise. In order to remain strong we need to bring in more dedicated volunteers into the organization, to build continuity for the years going ahead. This upcoming season promises to be an exciting year as we expect that we will have an exceptionally strong core of returning players combining with some new and exciting recruits. Our coaching staff, led by Jesse Dorrans, is a strong one; one which is dedicated to bring an exciting and winning brand of hockey to our city.”
Craig went on to give special thanks to Steve Junker for the special contribution he had made to the hockey club over the past three seasons. “His work on and off the ice was at an exceptionally high level.
“The achievement of two KIJHL championship runs in three years is it is something that Steve and our organization can be proud of.
“Special acknowledgment must also be given to our corporate partners whose financial commitment to the organization, making Junior Hockey possible in Castlegar. Please show your appreciation to our corporate partners by patronizing their businesses.”
Bob Stewart, Treasurer for the club reported that even with the successful season on the ice the club faces some financial challenges. Stewart stated that “a slowly eroding fan base, accompanied by increasing costs to operate the club, all placed pressure on the bottom line. These are challenges that we will need to overcome in order to stay alive in the longer term. “
The Rebels executive stayed in place with Craig re-elected as president, Tom Campbell as Vice President, and Bob Stewart as Treasurer. Jean Knight was added as Secretary of the club, replacing Sandy Terlecki who had held the position over the past four years.
Craig thanked Sandy for her dedication and service to the Rebels in this role.