The Superior Coach Lines Senior Hockey League could be expanding to six teams in time for its second season.
Team organizers are in the final stages of putting together an entry from Souris to compete in the five-team league, which saw four teams from the former Prince County Senior Hockey League and a new team from Montague compete in its inaugural season in 2009.
Souris team organizer Mark Rupnow, who is also the assistant coach of the UPEI men's hockey Panthers, said the team is in the process of engaging in final meetings with league president Jeff Ellsworth.
“We have more than enough players interested as well as (other team personnel),” Rupnow said.
“It’s just more so piecing the puzzle together in the next few weeks.”
Senior hockey is not new to Souris.
The community has had two hockey teams, the Sharks and Boathaulers, compete at the senior level on P.E.I. in the past.
There are a number of reasons for the interest in senior hockey in Souris and why a team makes sense, Rupnow said.
“Souris has got a good history of senior hockey,” he said. “Definitely the rink could use the tenant. They need a main tenant and they have the fan support for sure.”
The team is still in the process of actively searching for players but Rupnow expects team practices could start as early as this month.
“It’s about finding the right mix of people. You want to run it as professional as possible because it’s got to be top notch to attract the players.”
He said the fact the Marines were successful in winning the league title in its first season last year is also an inspiration to team organizers in Souris,
“Montague sparked a lot of interest in local players.”
As for a team name, nothing has been decided yet.
“There’s nothing concrete (on a name) yet but because it’s a new beginning, I think you’re going to see something new and fresh.”
Ellsworth said an executive meeting is scheduled for late September to decide if the Souris request will be accepted.
“Until we have an executive meeting (the request) is as far as it goes.”
The fact Souris is on the east side of the Island shouldn’t be a factor, Ellsworth said.
“Souris is what, a half-hour from (Montague)? The travel is not really a big deal in my eyes, but we’ll see.”
The league starts its 2010-2011 season Nov. 8.
For more information on the proposed Souris men’s senior hockey team, visit its Facebook page titled “Souris Senior Hockey”.
