Storm Win their First Division Title since 2016

Image Credit - Alex Beckett/Fallsway Marketing & Media

The Kamloops Storm captured their first Doug Birks Division title in nearly a decade on Friday night, defeating the Merritt Centennials 5–2 at McArthur Island.

The win moves the Storm to 60 points on the season with a 29–8–2 record, officially securing the division crown. Williams Lake currently sits second in the division at 47 points.

While the division is locked up, the league race remains tight. As of last night, the Storm sit first overall in the KIJHL, tied on points with the Kimberley Dynamiters but holding the edge through more regulation wins. Revelstoke is just one point back with two games in hand, while Princeton and Beaver Valley remain firmly in the mix as the regular season enters its final stretch.

General Manager Matt Kolle emphasized that the group’s focus remains unchanged despite the milestone. “Tonight is another step closer to reaching our goal. From day one we have been here to win. This group is getting it done,” said Kolle.

Head Coach Andrew Fisher echoed that sentiment, pointing to the work still ahead.“Still a lot of work to do to reach our ultimate goal, but it certainly feels good to get the division clinched and to do something we haven’t done in our time here with the team. It speaks volumes to the work this group of guys has done to this point in the season,” Fisher said.

With the division secured, the Storm now turn their attention to finishing the regular season strong and positioning themselves for a deep playoff run in what continues to be one of the tightest league races in recent years.