In the world of today, everyone is looking to social media to stay up-to-date with their favourite celebrities and athletes alike.
The Centennials have recognized that, and are keeping the community in the loop on how they are still building next season’s team even through self-isolation.
Head coach Derek Sweet-Coulter sent out his own video of support for the town, saying that he was “checking in.”
“I just want to make sure everyone is doing okay, I know it’s trying times right now, so I just wanted to make sure everyone is practicing their social distancing.”
He added that the team is “working hard to connect in any way (they) can.
“The staff and myself, we’re working really hard right now to prepare for next season. We appreciate your support, and we’re looking forward to build a product here that everyone in Merritt can be proud of on and off the ice.
“We’re connecting with each other, but the biggest thing of all is social distancing and flattening this curve. We will get through this, and we’ll get through it together.
Forward Wyatt Marlow, entering his second season with the Cents, posted a video from his Cranbrook home pretending to fish with a hockey stick while donning his helmet.
“Hope everyone is doing well, and staying safe during this time,” said Marlow. “I’m missing hockey season a little extra today, so I decided to combine fishing and hockey.
“As you can see, I’m running out of good ideas.”
One of the Centennials’ newest recruits, Chris Fortems out of Delta, gave a “big thanks” to all of the people working on the front lines of the pandemic.
“I can’t wait to meeet all the guys on the team next year, and get my junior career started with the Cents. Looking forward to being with the team and the community. Go Cents go.”
Forward Ben Ward, coming off of his second year with the Centennials, posted his own “hockey from home” message on Twitter.
“Just checking in here, making sure everyone keeping safe and staying indoors during this time.
“Do what you can to keep busy. We’ll be back at the NVMA (Nicola Valley Memorial Arena) soon enough to play some great hockey for you guys.
“I would like to thank all of our sponsors who have helped us out through the years. And I would also like to put a special thanks out to all of the front line heroes that are doing what they can in the hospitals, putting in all of the countless hours to help fight this pandemic. See you guys soon.”
The team also launched a pair of new initiatives: the Cents COVID helpline is there to assist those who need groceries or another essential goods, sending out a number to reach Director of Hockey Operations John Stuart for the assist.
The Centennials Business Booster is the other initiative put out by the team, asking businesses in town to email [email protected] if they are struggling and need promotion.
Other teams and players around the league are following suit, posting their own versions of tributes to health care workers and keeping their communities up to date on their quarantine status.
