Challenges Await the Chilliwack Bruins

Originally published in Prospects Hockey in 2006

By Lucas Aykroyd

Operating an expansion team is often like being the new kid in school: nobody really knows you, and you get pushed around in the beginning. But the Chilliwack Bruins hope to minimize those growing pains as they enter 2006-07 as the WHL’s 21st and newest franchise.

At least they’re not coming into a non-traditional hockey market. An hour’s drive from Vancouver, this scenic Fraser Valley community of 70,000 has previously supported clubs like the BCHL’s Chilliwack Chiefs (1990-2006) and the original Chilliwack Bruins (1970-76), who were the Junior A farm team for the WHL’s Estevan Bruins.

With a season ticket base of 2,800 at the 5,000-capacity Prospera Centre, the Bruins should hear plenty of cheers as they vie for a BC Division playoff berth. But GM Darrell May also wants to generate entertainment with an up-tempo game, unlike the conservative approach many expansion teams take. “We want to work hard and compete, playing aggressively and being physical,” said May. “I think with the new rules, you have to go after your opponents with speed.”

The Everett Silvertips set a high standard for expansion teams in 2003-04, marching to the WHL finals. It’ll be tough to equal that, but Chilliwack veterans like Josh Aspenlind will still try to show leadership. “It’s nice being here as a 20-year-old,” said the Langley-born winger. “You get to leave a footprint on a new franchise.” New blood like Swedish winger Oscar Moller will add a dash of speed and skill.

Chilliwack coach Jim Hiller knows how to motivate and teach, and the former NHL teammate of Wayne Gretzky and Steve Yzerman will encourage his players to demonstrate class on and off the ice like those two superstars.

Meanwhile, the Giants are excited about having a new foe in their backyard. “Rivalries are always good,” said Vancouver coach Don Hay. “I think Lower Mainland fans will be the beneficiaries of first-class hockey between Chilliwack and Vancouver.”