BROOKS, AB (August 3, 2023) – The Brooks & District Junior A Hockey Association, who operate as the Brooks Bandits of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), held their 2023 Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, August 2nd, capping off another National Championship winning year.
The Bandits won their sixth AJHL Regular Season Championship with a 53-5-2 record, followed by capturing the team’s seventh AJHL Championship. Brooks finished the season with a dominant 6-0 record at the 2023 Centennial Cup in Portage la Prairie, MB, winning the team’s fourth National Championship.
Off the ice, the Bandits saw a 29% increase in fan attendance on a per game average during the regular season compared to the 2021-22 season, which was attributed to government restrictions being lifted. Playoff attendance saw a 12.5% increase in fan attendance on a per game average compared to the 2022 Playoffs.
The 2022-23 Financials were released, with the team reporting a surplus before amortization of $64,746. Revenue was up 13% from the 2021-22 season, not factoring government subsidies received in 2022. Expenses saw a 2% increase from the 2021-22 season.
The organization also held its election for Officers and Directors, all positions were filled by acclamation. The 2023-24 Board of Directors are:
Paul Seaton: President
April Fleury: Vice-President
Mike Ibach: Treasurer
James Mitchell: Secretary
Neil Fraser: Director
Sheila Laverty: Director
Reg Swartz: Director
James Unchelenko: Director
The Board extended their appreciation to Murray Hauck, Kelly Tanigami and Ryan Papaioannou, who are stepping away from their roles.
The Bandits are participating in the U20 Super Challenge in Karlstad, Sweden from August 15th to 20th.
Training Camp will begin on August 26th, with the Exhibition Season opening on September 5th at the Centennial Regional Arena vs Okotoks.
2023-24 Season Tickets are on sale, call 403-501-0122 for more information.