SRJC Hockey Hosts Wine Country Collegiate Classic

By: Keshia Knight, SRJC Hockey Staff Writer

After two canceled games to open November, the Polar Bears hockey team is ready to get back on the ice as they host the 2nd annual Wine Country Collegiate Classic at Snoopy's Home Ice November 8-10.

Hockey fans will be treated to a three-day showcase featuring the SRJC Polar Bears, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Northern Arizona University and the Bay Area Sharks (a Junior team).

Competition opens up at  6:30 p.m.Thursday, November 8  as the Polar Bears face off against the Metropolitan State Ice Jacks. The remaining two teams, the Bay Area Sharks and Northern Arizona University, will match up for a 9 p.m. game to close out Day 1.

The Polar Bears will take on the Bay Area Sharks at 6 p.m. Friday, November 9, followed by an 8:30 p.m. game between Metropolitan State and Northern Arizona University.

On the last day of competition, SRJC will play Northern Arizona University in a 5:30 p.m. match up. The Sharks and Metropolitan State will close out the weekend with an 8 p.m. game.

The Wine Country Collegiate Classic gives the team a chance to face talented clubs and gear up for the next month of competition before the winter break. The team is confident this weekend's showcase will get them back on track.

"Our showcase provides us with an opportunity to forget about the losses in October, and has major implications on rankings for us," Coach Tom Billeter said. "With players returning from injuries and sharper systems and special teams, it'll be tough, but I think our guys can take a 3-0 record from the showcase." 

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