Port Coquitlam welcomes new Junior B hockey team, first since 2006

The Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) has announced its latest franchise, this time in Metro Vancouver’s tri-cities.

For the first in almost 20 years, Port Coquitlam will welcome the new team for the 2023-24 season. While the new franchise has yet to decide on a name, the team will play out of the newly renovated Port Coquitlam Community Centre, in the Jon Baillie Arena.

The 780-spectator arena will be the home of the league’s 14th franchise.

The PJHL says local resident Rob Toor approached the league early last year with a proposal to bring back junior hockey to the city.

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“We are proud to welcome a new franchise in Port Coquitlam to our league,” PJHL commissioner Trevor Alto said. “Rob and his partners have shown us they are prepared to do what it takes to run a successful team, so it made sense to offer Junior hockey to players and fans in that community.”

Port Coquitlam was the home of the Poco Buckeroos from 1990 to 2006 before the team moved to Port Moody and continued as the Panthers.

“We are very excited about this great opportunity for the City of Port Coquitlam and for hockey in our community. I know our residents will be looking forward to cheering on this new team in our state-of-the-art facility – the Port Coquitlam Community Centre,” Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West said. “We look forward to showcasing our local hockey community, our great facilities and this amazing city.”

The addition of the Port Coquitlam franchise will equal out the number of teams in the PJHL’s two conferences, with seven teams in each division.

The new franchise will get the local community’s input and participation to come up with a team name and logo to be unveiled later this year.

“There is an abundance of community spirit that will rally around this new team showing their enthusiasm and support.

“This calibre of hockey will provide tremendous opportunities for our youth, and will inspire children and youth to pursue their sport interests by watching their community team in action,” West said.