Vancouver Giants unveil Tribute Jerseys to open the WHL Season

The Vancouver Giants revealed their tribute jersey to the public today and will take them to the ice in their home opener on Friday, September 20 when they play the Victoria Royals at the Pacific Coliseum. This is the first match of a whopping 10 games against the Royals, the side effect of cost cutting junior hockey.

The jerseys honours the contributions to the game by their First Nations.

The “lazy cross” depicted on the crest is the brand of the Alkali Lake Ranch where most hockey players on the Braves team worked. The Alkali Lake Braves were led by Alec Antoine to a BC Northern League title in 1931. The Braves’ success earned them a chance to play against the powerhouse Vancouver Commercials. The Commercials swept the Braves in the two-game exhibition, but the opportunity to play against a professional team earned the Braves respect for their toughness and sportsmanship. The courage that the Alkali Lake Braves displayed paved the way for players like Fred Sasakamoose, who became the first man from a Native Reserve to appear in the National Hockey League.

It’s going to be an interesting year for the team, finishing absolute last in the WHL last season.

Full season schedule can be found here.