Brooks Bandits set BCHL exhibition slate amid major roster turnover
The back-to-back BCHL champions will open preseason play Sept. 8 against Spruce Grove as they rebuild after losing key players to major junior, NCAA and pro hockey.
The Brooks Bandits have released their 2026 BCHL exhibition schedule, opening with a home game against the Spruce Grove Saints at Centennial Regional Arena on Sept. 8. They then face the Okotoks Oilers twice, first on the road Sept. 11 and again at home Sept. 12, before starting the regular season Sept. 18 in Blackfalds against the Bulldogs and hosting the Oilers Sept. 19.
The Bandits, winners of back-to-back BCHL titles, face significant roster turnover heading into 2026-27. Points leader Jack Good is moving to the OHL's Brantford Bulldogs, while several other forwards and defencemen are headed to NCAA Division I programs, U Sports, or professional leagues in Switzerland and Germany.
In a trade with the Chilliwack Chiefs, Brooks sent forward Koby Francis to Chilliwack in exchange for goaltender Noah Tegelaar's BCHL rights and future considerations. Francis split last season between the Chiefs and the QMJHL's Chicoutimi Sagueneens, while Tegelaar played in the OHL with the Erie Otters and Soo Greyhounds.
The team is also searching for a new assistant coach after Cole McCaig left to become head coach and general manager of the Flin Flon Bombers. Brooks will hold its annual general meeting Aug. 31 at Centennial Regional Arena.
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