The Strathmore Wheatland Kings are fighting their way through this season with heart.  

After losing their last two games, General Manager Lee Smith and the Kings coaching staff are continuing to challenge the team forward.  

“Our last game was Saturday night in Coaldale, we ended up losing 6-4. It was a well-played game. It was close right until the end and then they just scored two in the third period to beat us. We also had some injury trouble, and that’s where we are right now.”  

On October 2, the team matched with the Okotoks Bisons at home and lost 5-2.  

“We have to get on the win train here,” continued Smith. “We have to start winning so I'm hoping that  the injury bug is behind us after this week and then we can get ahead and win these next to games.”  

King forward, Josh Alberda is out on a knee injury and Captain Garret Vander Ploeg went down with a hip injury on Saturday night as well. 

Despite the injuries, Smith said there was one player who really helped push the team forward on Saturday.  

“Ethan Van Egmond, he probably played one of his better games of the year as a rookie last Saturday night in Coaldale, he had two goals out of the four.” 

Next up the Kings are looking to play the Lomond Lakers on Friday in Vulcan and then the Kainai Junior Braves at home on Saturday.  

“We are looking forward to playing them this Saturday, we beat them 7-1 last time but they are improving every week. So, I expect a better game on Saturday night.” 

Smith explained that they are always excited to play at home and are thankful for the fans who come out and cheer them on. 

“We have a loyal fan base and it's great to see that we get good numbers out to our games which is the most important thing.” 

Tickets for the Kings upcoming games can be found on EventBrite.ca. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required upon entry to the arena.