Before facing off against the Wenatchee Wild, the Penticton Vees of the Western Hockey League were gearing up for their upcoming game. Amidst the hockey excitement, Riley Pollock, the team’s communications director, acknowledged the dilemma faced by fans torn between the Blue Jays’ World Series appearance and the Vees game.
Pollock mentioned the challenge of choosing between two thrilling sporting events, recognizing the tough decision he would have if not occupied with broadcasting the game.
Embracing the baseball fever sweeping across Canada, two B.C. Interior WHL teams, including the Penticton Vees, decided to embrace it by showcasing the World Series games at their arenas. The Vees will open the South Okanagan Events Centre early to screen the first game, with the Kelowna Rockets following suit for the second game.
Pollock explained that the decision to combine baseball celebration with hockey games was an obvious choice to attract more fans to their matches.
While hockey teams join the celebrations, the Vancouver Canadians, the Blue Jays’ minor league affiliate, opted for an exclusive viewing party for select supporters. However, they plan to host a public watch party for game four at Hero’s Welcome to engage the broader community.
With the ongoing strike affecting liquor distribution in B.C., the hospitality industry sees the World Series as a welcome diversion. Ian Tostenson, President of the British Columbia Restaurant and Foodservices Association, anticipates a boost in sales due to the game, providing relief amidst the labor disruptions.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and superstar Shohei Ohtani have arrived in Toronto as the favourites ahead of the World Series against the Blue Jays but Jays fans are excited and the team’s players and coaches believe in their chances.</
