Staff
Fort Frances Lakers’ hockey fans can start planning their social calendars for this fall and winter.
The SIJHL announced its 56-game regular-season schedule Friday, with the Lakers getting into action on opening night when they host the Thief River Falls Norskies on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ice For Kids Arena.
Their first game against the defending SIJHL champion Dryden Ice Dogs, who ended the Lakers’ three-year title run in the semi-finals last season, will be held here Sept. 30.
In all, the Lakers will play 27 home games and 27 others on the road, with one of those away games being the only neutral site contest of the SIJHL season (on Oct. 27 against the Norskies in Red Lake Falls, Mn.)
Each team also will participate in two more games during the annual SIJHL “Showcase,” which for the first time will be held here on Jan. 30-31.
Numerous college, junior, and pro scouts are expected to be on hand to watch all six SIJHL teams in action over the two days.
During the “Showcase,” the Lakers will face the Thunder Bay North Stars on Jan. 30, then the Dryden GM Ice Dogs the following night.
The squad will play just two afternoon games during the upcoming regular season.
They will play the English River Miners in Red Lake on Feb. 11 at 2 p.m., then host a “Family Day” matinee on Feb. 19 at 2:30 p.m. versus the Minnesota Iron Rangers.
