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*Katth* · 12-27-2018, 07:43 AM

Before the start of every season, some Kelowna Knights fans get a surprise visit from one of their heroes and present them with their season tickets for the upcoming season. Today we follow rookie Barry Batsbak. Batsbak was drafted 61st overall and will most likely get a spot on the third line. Kelowna’s rebuild is in full-swing, but rookie Barry Batsbak is eager to start competing.

First stop is in Vernon. The Wilson family of five, are 10 year season ticket holders for the Kelowna Knights and did not expect to get a visit from the rookie Barry Batsbak to present them their season tickets. Mike Wilson, father and loving husband told the media: “We are very fortunate to get a visit from Barry. We have been reviewing some of the prospect tournament video’s out there to get an idea of who Barry is and what he can bring to the team. We are glad he’s with us and I hope he will have a bright future ahead of him.” While Mike Wilson was talking to the press, Barry Batsbak was playing some hockey on the rink the Wilson family builds every year in their backyard. Jason Wilson (12), Tyler Wilson (9) and Anna Wilson (7) are all out there trying to best Barry in a 3 vs 1. The family waved to Barry as he left for his next stop in Kamloops.

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Arriving in Kamloops we pass by a group of children playing street hockey. Barry steps out of the car to play a few minutes, but none of the kids seem to know who Barry is. As he introduces himself they all swarm him and ask for his autograph. Barry willingly signs a few sticks and heads back in the car. Next stop is the Smith’s. An elderly couple that have been fans ever since they can remember. Barry presents the season tickets to Tom Smith (73) and Maria Smith (74) and welcomes them to join the Kelowna’s owner in his box for opening night in Prospera Place. Tom is speechless and Maria says: “We could only dream of being invited in the owners box for opening night. Also being invited by one of the newly drafted players is wonderful. We’ve had quite a life already, but Barry has his future ahead of him and we hope he does wel for the Kelowna Knights.” Barry added: “It’s a privilege to be able to go out there and meet the fans of this amazing organisation. Such diversity and harmony in the crowd is fuel for us as a team to perform on the ice every game. It’s these little things to reward our longtime season ticket holders that gives them a huge smile on their face and a day they will always remember.”

We return with Barry Batsbak to Kelowna to the Kelowna Knights practice facility where he is having his well deserved lunch. After lunch the Kelowna Knights will have their afternoon practice session. With the new season ahead of us we are all eager to find out what the Kelowna Knights have in store for us.