A physically distanced version of the Merritt Centennials AGM was held last night at the Best Western Plus in Merritt and after nominations from the floor and current directors letting their name stand, Kevin Rabbitt remained President, Guy Lanki retained the role of VP, and Beth Nadeau now holds the titles of Treasurer and Secretary.
The remainder of the board was also filled out through acclamation and no vote was needed as four new board members enter the fold: Stu Jackson (current Chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band), Mike Pears, Ryan Strande, and Ken Carruthers. The remainder of the board is filled by those staying on: Kelly Bartch, John Stuart, Betty Doberstein, Andrew Clasper, Sandy Hostrawser, Richard Sterling, and Peter Schmid.
From the hockey operations side, John Stuart provided a brief update announcing, while not final, the regular-season schedule will see the Cents play only within the Interior Division, which will include newcomers the Cranbrook Bucks.
As for American players there will be a process for them to get across the border to play in the BCHL, but it’s a problem the Cents won’t have to deal with due to the lack of Americans on this year’s roster Stuart confirmed.
VP Guy Lanki also announced the board is investigating the possibility of expanding the beer garden to allow for alcohol service in more areas in the rink.
As for the financials, the team lost money, however far less than last year. This season the team lost $31,087, compared to $95,645 the year previous.
The Centennials are excited for the new and current members of the board to guide them through what will be and has already been a difficult season.
