Petition aiming for return of TRU men’s ice hockey

SPORTS — A petition is being organized to pressure the TRU ahtletic department into reinstating its men’s ice hockey team.

TRU bowed out of hockey this past summer as the team was entering its sixth season of play in the B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League competing against the University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, Trinity Western University, Selkirk College and Eastern Washington University.

“The team was a great source of pride for the players, fans, student body and the city of Kamloops B.C.,” says the petition.

“The hockey team provided a place for 25 student athletes to continue playing competitive hockey while furthering their education. Many of these players would not be pursuing a post-secondary education if there wasn’t an opportunity to play TRU Hockey. Many of the committed players did not attend university as a result of this unfortunate circumstance.

“A large percentage of the players come from outside of the Kamloops area. The economic impact the student athletes bring to the University and the city of Kamloops is immeasurable.

“It is our hope, that along with a sustainable financial model, TRU and its President reinstate the Men’s Ice Hockey Team.”

The petition is here on change.org.