Vees: best hockey experience in Canada

I generally don’t read the letters from regular trollers who feel compelled to share their narrow-minded, selfish views of local goings-on but hockey headlines will always get my attention.

Elvena Slump’s letter has touched a nerve (Herald, Feb. 14). I have been an enthusiastic supporter of junior hockey in Penticton since the 1970s as a season ticket holder, sponsor, billet mother and marketing manager — it’s safe to say I am a fan.

I enjoy the hockey, the comaraderie with fellow fans and the energetic vibe that the SOEC has created for us.

The Penticton Vees consistently put a great team on the ice and the SOEC does an outstanding job of delivering a vibrant, safe and family friendly game night experience. It is no wonder they continue to break attendance records year over year. Residents of all ages enjoy the games and, more importantly, our youth are exposed to good, clean fun that is far more inspiring than what we are seeing on our city streets.

Hockey rinks have long been the place where communities gather. The SOEC caters to the entire community — our aging population get a great view from comfy seats, families have an activity they can all enjoy and local businesses have luxury suites to woo their customers. What a win! Vees games are typical of every hockey game in every rink across the country — loud, enthusiastic fans, loads of kids and lively intermissions. It is wonderful!

We are fortunate to have a championship team to cheer on and a state-of-the-art rink to gather in. Kudos to Fred Harbinson and Dean Clarke for providing the best Junior Hockey experience in Canada.