Business Matters posted Jul 16, 2021 @ 04:30pm by

Gavin Hamilton on the business of hockey

In this episode of Business Matters, presented by Valley First, a division of First West Credit Union, our host Rob Cupello is joined by Gavin Hamilton, from The Kelowna Rockets.

After a very difficult season for The Kelowna Rockets, Gavin Hamilton is excited to welcome spectators back to the rink.

The last 16 months brought many sacrifices and cutbacks for Gavin and his team. When asked how they got through it, he said they found solace knowing that they were in it with the other 22 teams in The Western Hockey League.

When given the opportunity of a short season this past year, Gavin jumped at the offer. It wouldn’t be a profitable season for The Kelowna Rockets, but he felt the players need it for the opportunities and morale.

On a lighter note, The Kelowna Rockets are thrilled to return for a normal season this fall! Oct 1, 2021, will act as their home opener against the Everett Silvertips.

They have a full 68 game schedule which includes cross-border and the usual 34 home games. Season ticket holders are up for renewal on Monday, Jul 19, 2021and according to Gavin, there is particularly high demand. Both Rob and Gavin attribute this increase to pent-up demand for live sports games due to the lack of in-person spectatorship caused by COVID-19.

Watch the full interview below.