BEY ND THE BLUE LINE Rockies maintain division lead

Submitted by Columbia Valley Rockies

It has been a busy schedule for the Columbia Valley Rockies this month as they widen the gap on first place in the Eddie Mountain Division.

On Tuesday, January 24, the team hosted the Golden Rockets and won 9-2 in front of the excited home crowd.

Fans tuned into the HockeyTV broadcast this past weekend as the Rockies made a West Kootenay road trip. On Friday, January 27, the team played the Beaver Valley Nitehawks in Fruitvale, ending the match in a 3-2 overtime loss. The following night the Rockies bounced back with an 8-1 win against the Nelson Leafs, ending the week with five out of a possible six points.

Last week, on January 20, the Rockies got a thrilling 3-2 overtime win against the against the Kimberley Dynamiters in a packed home rink. With that victory the Rockies knocked the Dynamiters off top spot in the Eddie Mountain Division.

During that match, the enthusiastic fans created a thrilling atmosphere that helped motivate the team. For the first time ever, the coveted 50/50 pot started at $1000, thanks to local sponsor, the Swansea Ranch. The total surpassed $2440, with one happy winner taking $1220 home along with bragging rights after their team win.

On January 21, the Rockies headed to Creston and scored a decisive 9-2 win over the Thundercats. Keenan Ingram potted a hat trick and 2 assists, along with goals from five other teammates.

When asked for his comments about the team, Coach Emery Olauson noted, “It is shaping up to be a wild ride to the conclusion of the regular season. The boys have their sights set on capturing the division regular season title and that goal is in reach. We are looking forward to playing in front of the growing crowds at the Eddie, and preparing ourselves for a playoff run.”

The next home game at the Eddie is on Saturday, February 4, for a rematch against Beaver Valley. Fans are in for a few new experience upgrades as we build momentum for playoffs. There will be an option for online ticket sales using Showpass, along with private mezzanine rentals for a VIP game experience. With the growing fan attendance, give yourself extra time to get to the game. Make sure to follow the Columbia Valley Rockies on social media for all the latest updates.