A new Junior A hockey team will call Brighton home for the next GMHL season.
The Greater Metro Jr. A Hockey League (GMHL) announced the expansion earlier this month, saying the addition of the Brighton Vikings reflects the league’s ongoing commitment to expanding high-quality junior hockey opportunities.
“We’re very excited that we have a Jr. A hockey team coming to Brighton,” says Mayor Brian Ostrander.
Council has now also authorized the Municipality of Brighton to sign a finalized agreement to advance the partnership and new team’s arrival, and Ostrander believes there will be big benefits for the community.
The team will play its home games at the King Edward Park Arena.
The municipality’s Vicki Hallam, manager of parks and recreation, notes this addition positions Brighton as a host community for high-level competitive hockey, while also enhancing Brighton’s profile in the region.
Hallam says Jr. A hockey is also widely recognized for its role in athlete development and provides pathways to post-secondary athletics and professional opportunities.
Ostrander adds council also anticipates economic benefits for the larger community.
“People will stop and grab a soda or maybe an after-game beverage somewhere and it’ll be a good little economic driver for Brighton,” he continues.
With council approval, the parks and rec team is gearing up to ensure a smooth transition for the inaugural season starting this fall.
But there’s an event in the works coming sooner where residents and the hockey community will be able to learn more.
The sports showcase will be at the King Edward Park Arena.
The GMHL says the organization remains committed to building a strong hockey culture in the region and further details surrounding team operations, player recruitment and community engagement will also be shared in coming months.
As previously reported, the GMHL already has the Northumberland Stars based in Colborne, with the team competing for the Russell Cup in the finals this week.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
