March 3, 2017
Virden, MB - The Virden Oil Capitals held their annual Year-End Awards Banquet on Thursday night for just under 300 people at Tundra Oil & Gas Place. The evening had several highlights and emotion-filled speeches that touched on the five-year history of the club as well as the excitement heading into the upcoming MJHL playoffs.
Former Oil Capital Marketing Manager, and current Brandon Wheat Kings voice, Branden Crowe, was the master of ceremonies for the night who invited team President, Dale Lewis, Head Coach and General Manager, Troy Leslie, team Captain, Mack Hardy, and special guest speaker, Jeff Odgers to the podium to say a few words to start the evening.
Jeff Odgers gave an inspiring speech about his journey as a hockey player along with an introduction PowerPoint on himself. He explained the path that he had to take to get to the NHL, where he played for San Jose Sharks, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche, and the Atlanta Thrashers in his 12-year career. The well spoken, Odgers wrapped up his great speech with an inspirational talk about the Oil Capitals heading into playoffs.
The evening continued with the awards. Twelve awards were handed out at this year’s banquet along with the Cole Hamblin Memorial Award, which is presented annually to the Oil Caps most valuable player in the previous playoffs.
Following the awards, to wrap up the evening, the Virden Oil Capitals Foundation jersey auction took place. All the funds from the auction will go towards community initiatives and projects. In total, the jersey auction raised $15,750. Thank you to everyone who purchased a jersey and supported the Virden Oil Capitals Foundation.
The evening didn’t wrap up regular season play as usual, as the Oil Capitals have one game left tomorrow night on the road against Winkler Flyers. The Capitals will return home for Round one of the playoffs, and dates will be announced early next week. Tickets for the playoffs are on sale now! Stop by the Capitals Office to purchase your tickets or call 204-748-4848.