AJHL’s Drayton Valley Thunder purchased by group of local business owners

The Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) announced they’ve approved the sale of the Drayton Valley Thunder on Thursday.

The new ownership group, comprised of local business owners, will take over effective immediately after they bought a majority stake in the team for 100 per cent ownership.

“We believe this new ownership group is well-positioned to continue the Thunder’s legacy of success and community involvement,” stated Interim Team President Kevin Young in a media release. “Our team is committed to providing a positive and enriching experience for players, staff, fans and the entire Drayton Valley community. We are eager to work closely with our new ownership group, the AJHL, and its member teams to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of the league.”

The new owners are committed to keeping the organization a locally owned hockey team that’s community driven and financially sustainable. In addition, they want to foster player development, on-ice success, and community pride.

The team also announced they’ve named Eric Schneider as their new vice-president of hockey operations who will report directly to ownership. He will oversee all of the teams hockey related decisions including recruitment, strategy, and development.

His first order of business will be reviewing the hockey operations department to ensure the team’s long-term success.

“The acquisition of the Thunder by a local group creates an opportunity to rejuvenate the team in Drayton Valley. By implementing a comprehensive business plan that focuses on financial sustainability, community engagement and on-ice success, the new ownership group can position the Thunder as a thriving franchise in the Alberta Junior Hockey League,” said AJHL Commissioner Ryan Bartoshyk.

“I would like to thank outgoing majority owners, Jennifer and Leighton Grey, for their commitment to the team and league.”

The Thunder will host two regular season home games on December 13 and 15, where members of the new ownership group will be on site to support the team alongside fans and community partners.