Junior-A attendance record?

Photo: Penticton Vees

The Penticton Vees are closing in a record-setting year for attendance — not only for the BCHL, but for Junior A leagues anywhere in Canada.

Through their first 23 home games this year, the Vees have averaged 3,036 fans per game at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

No Junior A team in the country has ever averaged more than 3,000 fans per game during the regular season.

Vees assistant coach Matt Fraser, who added director of community events to his hats this season, said the team has expanded its presence beyond Penticton's borders.

“To me, the biggest one is the school visits because the kids at the elementary schools love seeing the players up close and in person," Fraser said. 

"The look on the kids faces when they get to play floor hockey with their favourite Vees is something that shows you how important it is to get out in the community.”

Apart from school visits, the Vees have volunteered for a number of community initiatives this season, such as the 'Cover with Kindness' blanket drive, as well as several free skates with fans.

"We receive such incredible support from this community, it’s only fair that we return the favour," Fraser added.

The Vees set an attendance record last season, with an average of 2,981 fans per game at the SOEC.

Attendance for the Vees has grown starkly in the past six seasons. In 2012-13, the team had an average attendance of 1,774, according to hockeydb.com. 

Penticton has five more home games remaining in the regular season.

Their average attendance this season compares to 1,988 for the Vernon Vipers and 875 for the West Kelowna Warriors, according to hockeydb.