Victoria Royals fans got their first taste of game action and a look at their home team for the 2015-16 Western Hockey League season when the puck dropped Monday night for the 2015 intra-squad game.
The annual team game signals the end of training camp, which began last week with draft and rookie camp. Royals head coach Dave Lowry kicked off their main training camp Monday morning with a team practice.
In related Royals’ news, the team announced they have signed Eric Florchuk, their first round pick from the 2015 WHL bantam draft. The Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta native was selected 13th overall in the draft.
“Eric is an offensively gifted player and a great skater,” said general manager Cameron Hope.
“We are excited about his future with our club, and happy to welcome Eric and his family to the organization.”
Pre-season games start on Friday in Everett against the Silvertips. The first home pre-season game will be Sunday, Sept. 13 against the Vancouver Giants. Game time is 2 p.m.
The regular season starts at home Sept. 25 when the Portland Winterhawks come to town.