SURREY, BC – The Surrey Eagles of the BCHL have unveiled a new logo celebrating the franchise’s 25th season as the premier sports franchise in the City of Surrey. The introduction of the logo kicks off the club’s season-long celebration of 25 seasons of Eagles hockey. The Eagles 25th anniversary logo will appear on home jerseys during the 2015-16 season, as well as select merchandise throughout the year.
The Surrey Eagles played their first season in the newly constructed South Surrey Arena in 1991 with Paul McMillian as the team’s first Captain. In 1997, their fifth season, the Eagles finished with a record of 47-7-6 for 100 points, and won their first league championship by defeating the Vernon Vipers. The following season (1998-99) would bring the ultimate goal, a Royal Bank Cup. Over the years, the Eagles have captured five league titles, the most recent coming during the 2012-13 season. The Eagles have also competed for four National Championships.
“As we prepare for this historic 25th season, we are committed to two goals: Returning to a championship-caliber team, and restoring the roar that only a sold out, passionate group of Eagles fans can provide at the South Surrey arena,” said team President, Chuck Westgard. “Our organization is already hard at work recruiting for next season. We’ll be attending several prospect camps both locally and across Canada and the USA this summer. While we still believe there’s plenty of great local talent available, we’ll be looking to put together the very best team to help us get back in the playoffs and compete for a championship.”
In celebration of their 25th Anniversary Season, the Eagles will be hosting numerous contests and events all season long. The focus of the celebration will be on the fans. “Our dedicated and enthusiastic fans who have supported this franchise over the years are the primary reason for the Eagles success,” said Westgard. “We are extremely fortunate to have a great core of season ticket holders, corporate partners and loyal fans who enable us to showcase the best junior hockey players in the area while providing great family entertainment within the community for the past twenty-four years.”
Since 1991, the Eagles have been one of the top BCHL franchises in moving over 150 players on to NCAA Division 1 programs. Many of these players have gone on to have success at the NHL level including Scott Gomez, Tyler Eckford and most recently, Andrew Hammond of the Ottawa Senators. Several Eagles alumni have returned to the Surrey/White Rock area after their collegiate or professional playing careers and are now prominent members in the local business community. The Eagles will be honoring these Alumni throughout the upcoming 25th season.
Season tickets and sponsorship packages for the Eagles 2015-16 Silver Season are on sale now. For more info visit www.surreyeagles.ca or call (604) 531-4625.
