Creston Valley Thunder ready to start regular season
Published 1:30 pm Wednesday, September 16, 2026
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It’s a new season for the Creston Valley Thunder. New brand, new look, new coach and a new league.
This Friday the Thunder play their first regular season game in the Western International Junior Hockey League, at home against the Castlegar Rebels.
The pre-season was a bit of a disappointment, with four losses, but that doesn’t mean lessons weren’t learned, says Head Coach and GM Larry Wintoneak.“Obviously we want to win every game, but it’s exhibition. We’re evaluating players, who will fit in the right spot, work ethic, mannerisms, how they respond to certain situations.
“We’ve improved after the pre-season, and trying to find players with the right characteristics.”
Wintoneak says the team is still looking for players.
“Our league is new and sometimes that’s not a good perception for players, sometimes not the first choice for players. We want Creston to be a good landing spot.”
He is looking forward to the first game and glad that it is at home.
“We’re fortunate to have our first game in our own barn.”
He has no doubt there will be a good crowd.
“It’s dedicated fan base. I’m new to town but I see it every day, very enthusiastic.”
It will be a different looking team than last season, not just because of the new jerseys.
“There is not a single returning player. It’s a fresh start. We do have a few local boys, which is important for the fan base,” Wintoneak said.
The puck drops at 7 p.m. at the Johnny Bucyk Arena this Friday.