The Beaverlodge Blades are again returning to the North West Junior Hockey League. They are one of two teams the league is welcoming this year, along with the La Crete Lumber Barons, a brand new team.
The Blades last played in the 2017-2018 season after pulling out of the 2016-2017 season mid-season due to financial problems. The team again went on leave in the 2018-2019 season.
A camp is scheduled for September 2nd to 4th at the Crosslink County Sportsplex. Their return was also celebrated with a dinner and dance fundraiser at the Beaverlodge Arena Saturday.
Leading the squad this season will be GM/Head Coach Ed Widdifield, a longtime area resident with an extensive coaching history. He’s joined by Assistant Coach Colin Lefley, well known for his time with the Spirit River Rangers of the North Peace Hockey League.
This season for the NWJHL will consist of eight teams each playing 42 regular season games, starting September 22nd. Also in the league are the County of Grande Prairie Wheat Kings, Dawson Creek Kodiaks, Fairview Flyers, Fort St. John Huskies, North Peace Navigators, and Sundown Oilfield Sexsmith Vipers.