The excitement is building.
Dauphin Kings regular-season hockey is almost here. The team opens the campaign on Friday night in Swan River against the Stampeders.
On Saturday, the team hosts its Assiniboine College Home Opener at Credit Union Place. The Stampeders will be in town.
For fans getting excited for Saturday, Christian Laughland says there is a ton on the docket before the puck drops.
"Lots to do. It'll start at 5:00 p.m. with the tailgate party in the parking lot," said Laughland, Director of Business Operations. "There will be beer gardens, and Hat Trick Concession will be open. There will also be live music and road hockey. It should be a fantastic way to get the night going."
The puck will drop at 7:00 p.m., with player introductions starting at 6:45 p.m.
"We've changed it from 7:30 as in previous years," offered Laughland. "I've had a lot of compliments about that change so far. People are happy to be home at 9:30 instead of 10:00. That's been neat to see from people."
Before the puck drops, the Kings will honour a man who did so much for the organization over the years.
Ernie Rizok passed away in May. Rizok volunteered thousands of hours over the years with the Kings. From the Tractor Lotto to 50/50 to anything in between, Rizok was there.
Ernie was also a dedicated billet.
"Every volunteer means a lot to the Dauphin Kings. Ernie Rizok was on a different level. In a good way, he didn't go away. Even in the summer, he was always around trying to help and do little things," continued Laughland. "He had a great heart and was well known around the community, and everyone enjoyed his company."
Christian is also the Deputy Mayor and a member of city council.
"He was one of those key people that was important to the community," said Laughland. "He was important to the Dauphin Kings, but he was important to many organizations in the city. He's one of those people that make Dauphin such a great place to be a part of and live in. He will be greatly missed."
Half of the proceeds from Saturday's 50/50 will be donated to the Parkland Humane Society, in honour of Ernie. The jackpot is closing in on $2,500.
The Kings will also honour Dean Dawson, who poured his heart and soul into the organization for many years. He has since passed on.
"He was a big part of the Dauphin Kings," ended Laughland. "He was a part of sponsorship. We will take a few minutes to honour him as well."
You can hear Dauphin Kings hockey on 730CKDM this season with Darnell Duff. A full broadcast schedule is here.
