Image credit: Kamloops Storm

By Earl Seitz

KIJHL

KIJHL cancels season – business as normal (almost) for Kamloops Storm

Feb 8, 2021 | 6:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — A season put on hold in November, won’t be resuming in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League.

League governors met this weekend and decided to cancel the rest of the season after provincial COVID restrictions were extended.

KIJHL Commissioner Jeff Dubois says as March and April approach, some arenas will be removing their ice for the spring and summer, leaving the league unable to plan a meaningful conclusion to the season.

After the cancellation of the season, it’s business as normal for the Kamloops Storm —— as normal as it’s been since the league season was put on hold in November.

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“For us it really doesn’t change a lot.” says Storm general manager Matt Kolle.

Storm players continue to practice and work in the gym four days a week.

It’s hockey, but no games.

“For me personally, just getting on the ice is enjoyment for me, as much as I love playing games,” says Storm defenseman Devin Benson. “Our coach has been really good keeping us engaged. For me it’s been disappointing, but not as bad as I thought it would be.”

“Right now in practice it’s more just drills and systems.” says forward Branden Toye. “We’re developing, but not developing in a game situation.”

There’s still hope that could change in March —– that the Storm will be able to play games with Chase and Kelowna, which are continuing to develop players in a practice atmosphere.

It would be exhibition, in a playoff style format.

“You know it’s not laid out, but a best of seven is where we’d go with it.” says Matt Kolle.

While that’s still only in the planning stages, and hinging on a change in restrictions, some teams in the league are choosing to shut down completely now that the season is cancelled.

Players on those teams are being made available to join teams like the Storm and Chase to continue their development.

For others, like Devin Benson and Brandon Toye, they’re received interest from junior A teams across Western Canada, which are still hopeful of resuming a season in March, if restrictions are eased.

“That is the goal of most of our players as it is.” says Matt Kolle. “I think at any moment they’re all hopeful they’re going to get that call to the next level. And right now we’re going to keep them ready. They’re rarin’ to go — if there are teams out there looking for players, we certainly have some prime prospects”