The Wallaceburg Thunderhawks open their regular season schedule on Wednesday, September 14 at home against the Blenheim Blades.
But things look a little different for the Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) team this season after ownership changed a few months ago.
"The Chief and Council from Walpole Island has bought the team off of Ken Shine, the former owner, with plans to, you know, just give the youth something to look forward to, to work towards," said Thunderhawks General Manager and Governor Scott Gorry. "It's a pastime, everybody loves hockey, and enjoys being a part of it."
The Thunderhawks will play most of their home games at Wallaceburg Memorial Arena, but some will be played at the Walpole Island Complex. Wednesday's game at 7:30 p.m. is in Wallaceburg.
The team has struggled in recent seasons, and Gorry said they're hoping to turn that around.
"We have a long-term goal of changing things around. There's been a long history of this team being a losing club, and the goal is to try to get some more local kids involved, instead of going outside of Wallaceburg and surrounding areas, like Walpole Island."
Gorry said they've brought in a lot more local players this year, and released some from other areas. He also loves the attitude the players on the team have.
"Hard working, never give up attitude, just push it to the limit all the time. That's the kind of players we have. The skill level is something we will be working on all year."
Gorry added that they have high hopes for the Thunderhawks.
"This season everybody makes the playoffs, which is great for the team, they already know they're make the playoffs. There's only eight teams, that gives you a goal to strive for. Then there will also be a two-tier playoff, after the losers lose the first round. It's just something that you can strive for and go for, and your season isn't over so early."
Last season, the Thunderhawks placed eighth in the Stobbs Division with a 5-24-2-1 record.