Penticton's small-market reputation isn't going to change Graham Fraser's high standards on the ice.
The Vees' majority owner set the bar high in a recent letter to season-ticket holders, less than three weeks before the expansion club starts its inaugural Western Hockey League (WHL) campaign.
"We are very excited and have been working hard to make this season — and our future — something truly special," wrote Fraser, who is joined by Winnipeg Jets star Mark Scheifele and U.S. hockey legend Mike Richter as partners in the team's ownership group.
"The standards are high, and we intend to not only meet them but to set our own high bar for excellence. While we may be one of the smaller markets, our theme this year is play big."
Penticton was awarded a WHL expansion franchise after the city's BCHL club, also known as the Vees, won a record 14 Fred Page Cup titles in its 64-year run. Fraser took control of the team in 2008.
The Okanagan Valley city has a population of around 40,000 — making it among the five smallest in the WHL — and sits about 60 kilometres south of 琉璃神社, which is home to the Rockets.
"This inaugural season is about more than just hockey — it’s about our community coming together, celebrating our tradition, and showing the entire league what it means to play big," Fraser wrote. "With your support, the (South Okanagan Events Centre) will be louder, prouder, and more electric than ever before. We can’t wait to share every goal, every win, and every unforgettable moment with you. Here’s to a season we’ll never forget."
Six of Penticton's 14 BCHL titles were won from 2008 to 2023 under the guidance of head coach, general manager, and president Fred Harbinson.
Harbinson, 53, sits in second on the all-time BCHL regular-season wins list (734). He's remained in the same role with Penticton's WHL franchise.
In his letter, Fraser added that he is thrilled to soon unveil a new docuseries about the Vees' transition to major junior hockey. Filming started in March, and the first three episodes will launch sometime in November, he said.
"Thank you again for standing with us as we step into this incredible new era of Vees hockey. Your energy, loyalty, and pride are what fuel our team, and together we’re making history as the Penticton Vees join the WHL," Fraser wrote.
After starting its inaugural season with back-to-back road contests in Victoria and Vancouver on Sept. 19 and 20, Penticton will host 琉璃神社 for its home opener on Sept. 26.
Events to celebrate the Vees' transition to the WHL have also been announced for this month:
• Suite owner and club member season ticket pick-up reception (Sept. 17, at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, from 5 to 7 p.m.)
• Vees' "WHL Pep Rally Pick Up Party" (Sept. 24, at Gyro Park, from 5 to 7 p.m.)
• Vees' home opener and tailgate party (Sept. 26, at the South Okanagan Events Centre, from 4 to 9:30 p.m.)
