Sports

Hockey fans in Kelowna will now get two chances to watch the NHL Detroit Red Wings go through their paces.

The Wings, who have a rare four day break during a western road trip, will open practices to the public Wednesday and Thursday March 17 and 18.

Practices begin at 11 a.m. each morning. Doors to Prospera Place will open at 10 a.m.

Admission is a donation to the Kelowna Community Food Bank.

The Wings, in a battle with Calgary and Colorado for the final two Western Conference playoff spots, will play in Calgary next Monday.

They don't suit up again until Friday in Edmonton.

Between that time, the Red Wings will call Kelowna home.

“We’re very excited that the Red Wings are coming to our city,” says Rockets president and general manager Bruce Hamilton. “It’s a great opportunity for everyone to watch one of the best NHL organizations operate.”

Wings head coach Mike Babcock has ties to Kelowna.

He played one season with the Western Hockey League Kelowna Wings during their inaugural season of 1982-83.

Babcock is also the only coach to lead teams to the Memorial Cup, World Junior Championship, World Championship, Stanley Cup and an Olympic gold medal.