Westlock can expect some high-level AJHL hockey Aug. 30 as the Grande Prairie Storm take on the Bonnyville Pontiacs at the Rotary Spirit Centre.
The Alberta Junior Hockey League exhibition game will also be a fundraiser for local hockey, with money raised going towards the Westlock Senior Warriors and the Westlock Minor Hockey Association.
Rod Kaliel, who plays with the Warriors, explained that the decision to hold the game in Westlock came from the Grande Prairie team, who are hosting. It could have had something to do with splitting the travel costs by meeting in the middle, he said, as Westlock is central.
Nonetheless, Kaliel got in touch with the Storm — his nephew Lars Kaliel is the goalie on that team as well. The Warriors and the hockey association volunteered their time and are helping organize the game, since Grande Prairie was also looking for local groups with which to partner.
“The Storm have agreed to split the profits,” said Kaliel.
Another feature of the event will be a tailgate party, which is set to take place right before the warm-up in the north parking lot of the Spirit Centre. Starting at 5 p.m., there will be music and games, as well as some food to amp up the crowds before the 7 p.m. puck drop.
“You don’t get many hockey games in the summer,” said Kaliel about the decision to have an outdoor pre-game party.
A silent auction will also take place during the game. Afterwards, the players on both teams will come out and meet their supporters, take pictures and chat.
“We have some really good sponsors,” said Kaliel of the participation of local businesses.
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite, or via the event Facebook page.
