It appears the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League Lambton Shores Predators are headed to Komoka.
The Predators were chosen from three junior teams expressing interest in moving to Middlesex Centre, to continue talks and are currently working through details of a long term lease that could see the team relocate for the start of next season.
The Ontario Hockey Association approved Lambton Shores, as well as the Provincial Junior Hockey League's Lambeth Lancers and Mount Brydges Bulldogs, to pursue a move to Komoka. Middlesex Centre then decided to move to the next stage of negotiations with Lambton Shores.
Middlesex Centre Director of Community Services Scott Mairs says they are looking at signing a ten year lease agreement with the hockey club, that would be subject to council approval.
He says the Predators will be a great fit at the Middlesex Centre Wellness and Recreation Complex.
"The facility in Komoka lends itself to a higher level of play, we feel a junior 'B' club can bring a higher profile to not only the city but to Middlesex Centre as well," says Mairs. "The one ice surface sits about 750 people, with some warm viewing areas and potential for licensed events."
Lambton Shores had been playing out of the Shores Recreation Centre in Forest since the team moved from Petrolia in 2008.
The Komoka facility that opened in September 2011, is home to the Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs 'AAA' program. Mairs says with two NHL-sized ice surfaces, the Predators move will not have any impact on the minor sports groups currently playing at the complex.
Middlesex Centre Council is to make a final decision at its meeting June 21.