The name of Wiarton’s Junior ‘A’ Hockey team is now official.
Owners Joe and Tina Ziel along with supporters and councillors gathered inside the Wiarton arena Wednesday for the unveiling of the team’s name and logo.
The Greater Metro Junior Hockey League team will be called the Wiarton “Rock”.
Owner and coach of the Rock Joe Ziel tells Bayshore Broadcasting News they look to turn over a new leaf this year.
In case you don’t remember we told you first back in January, the owners decided to move the Grey Highlands Bravehearts team to Wiarton.
Ziel says the old team did not receive much support, which is why he and his wife decided to give Wiarton a shot.
He says it’s early but the community is already giving out overwhelming support for the new Greater Metro Junior Hockey League team.
According to Ziel, he and his wife were driving through the region in the summer time and couldn’t help but notice all of the “Rocks”, quarries and even the Spirit Rock.
He feels the name really pays tribute to the history in South Bruce Peninsula.
Deputy Mayor Jay Kirkland tells us the Wiarton Rock has a good ring to it.
Kirkland thinks there will be a lot of support for the new team, as it will give back good product to the municipality.
One of the defencemen, Chris Weaver, from the former Grey Highlands Bravehearts will be on the new team as will six other players.
Other players will be recruited through the off-season.
Weaver says it’s a fresh start for the team and hopes more support comes their way.
The Wiarton Rock will hit the ice for the 2016/2017 season this fall with home games taking place on Saturday’s at 8 PM.