Some junior hockey teams in Canada will have to battle to survive through this COVID-19 pandemic and the related shutdowns of their respective leagues.

The BC Hockey League (BCHL) is no different with Commissioner Chris Hebb saying the league and some teams may be in trouble moving forward due to a loss in revenue. It’s as the league is asking for government funding to help offset major losses for its 18 teams.

In Merritt, the Centennials just keep on surviving despite tough times in the past, present, and the uncertain future that lies ahead. Speaking to NL Sports, Governor Neil Menard says the team will make it through these tough times as well.

“There is enough support here in the city that if things got tough, our citizens would step forward and make sure that we are around,” he said. “You know this will be our 48th season, we’re coming close to the 50th season. “I think we’ll be okay and I think we’ll have the necessary support when the time comes.”

Menard says Merritt is a strong community that loves its local hockey team.

“We think our sponsors are going to stay. On the game, we’re working hard and trying to get more bums in the seats,” added Menard. “We haven’t been forcing our season tickets because we don’t know what’s happening, but the sponsorship I think has been good here in the city and I hope that they will continue to support us.”

The Centennials have had to cancel one spring camp already, and Menard knows it will be tough to host a camp in the fall – both of which are revenue generators for the hockey team.

As it stands, none of the BCHL’s 18 teams have given word that they will not be participating in the 2020/21 season, if its given the go-ahead by Hockey Canada.