JACKSON HOLE, WYO – The Jackson Hole Moose begin their season this weekend with a pair of home games against league rivals Bozeman Stingers—a more perfect opening weekend could not have been scripted.
These two teams met last less than eight months ago at the Snow King Center. The final game of the 2016-17 season was a classic with the Moose winning 5-4 to win the Black Diamond Hockey League championship Saturday, March 11, 2017 and take possession of the Joe Casey Cup.
And, man, were those Stingers stingy. It took a late rally with a three-goal third period to get that victory. Bozeman played hard and will be looking for revenge tonight.
The Moose finished last year with their best record ever (25-5) in 20 years of playing. A few new faces will sprinkle the lineup this weekend, including Tyler Jansen, Sage Welch, Eric Steinman, Alex Dewitz, and Kevin Sunde.
Bob Carruth returns to pilot the team with Bryan Korpi assisting. The Moose have named Brian Upesleja captain, with Tom Hartnett and Charlie Hagen the alternates. “Oops” will likely miss opening weekend, however, as he recovers from injury. Longtime team favorite Sean Hannafin (#19) has hung up his skates.
The Moose will be unveiling a new logo this season (a meaner-looking moose), complete with brand-new cream-colored home sweaters.
BDHL welcome Vail
In other hockey news, the BDHL has added the Vail Yeti to the fold. The Yeti should bring a high level of play to the league. They take the spot formerly occupied by the Missoula Desperadoes.
The four-team league is rounded out by the 2015-16 champs, Sun Valley Suns. The league championship weekend alternates between Jackson Hole and Sun Valley every year. This March, championship weekend will be played in Sun Valley.
Bozeman Stinger vs. Jackson Hole Moose. Friday and Saturday nights at the Snow King Sports and Event Center. DJ London and Cut la Whut provide musical entertainment. Doors/warmup 7pm, puck drops at 7:30pm.
