By Jaeden Demelo

Spruce Kings

Spruce Kings GM optimistic for a bounce back 2024-25 season

Aug 27, 2024 | 4:29 PM

PRINCE GEORGE— The Spruce Kings are preparing to enter their 29th season in the BCHL, coming off one of their toughest to date. They won just 16 of 54 games and General Manager Mike Hawes expected it would be a more developmental year.

“Last year was a difficult season for everybody. I kind of knew we’d take our lumps. It was maybe worse than I initially thought, but that happens in the game.”

Despite that, Hawes sees this year’s team much improved partially through last seasons struggles.

“We’ve got a great group of returning guys that gained some experience last season. We filtered through the group and brought back the guys that we thought are really going to contribute this year.”

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Along with the returning players The Spruce Kings have added depth throughout their roster.

“That was the key for us in the summer going through the recruiting and acquisition process, was to improve our depth up front… We’ve added a good mix of young guys with extremely good talent and large ceilings, and some veteran players that are going to be able to come in and play in our top six up front and top four on defense.”

The team also added a veteran goalie, with all the offseason moves adding up to what Hawes believes are the keys to success in the BCHL.

Though they aren’t the only attraction on the ice in town, there’s no shortage of excitement when the season starts at Kopar Memorial Arena.

“Our games are entertaining, fun to watch, great for the family, and we’re looking forward to having the fans back.” said Hawes on Tuesday. “I guarantee the team will be hard working and very entertaining.”

The Spruce Kings kick off their training camp this Friday to prepare for their preseason opener on Sept. 6 in Coquitlam.

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Email: jaeden.demelo@pattisonmedia.com