The U18 AAA Rocky Mountain Raiders hosted the Calgary Fire on Saturday in their home opener.

Though the Okotoks squad suffered a 4-2 loss, the occasion represented more than just a single game.

Not only was it the first game of the season for the female team, but also their first on their new home ice at the Pason Green Arena.

They'd previously been playing at the Scott Seaman Sports Rink, with their move to the Pason representing gender equity between the Raiders and the Bow Mark Oilers, who also play in the Green Arena.

The team's social media coordinator, Carolyn Berven, says it's a big step for local women's hockey.

"It actually gives the fans better seating and it's just a bigger better facility for the highest level of female hockey you can play in the province. It is a little bit overdue, but we got there. And it's just awesome for those players."

A Truth and Reconciliation ceremony was also held before the game.

Representatives from Holy Trinity Academy and the Foothills Composite were present, and players wore orange jerseys during the warmup.

They were also joined by Colin Spring Chief, a residential school survivor and grandfather of Bow Mark Oilers player Ryder Many Grey Horses.

In terms of the game itself, it's clearly still an early stage for the current Raiders lineup.

Berven, whose daughter is on the roster, thinks they'll need a bit of time before they mesh as a team.

"There are only six AAA female teams in all of Alberta and they have open boundaries, therefore, anyone from any community can come here to try out for this team, so it is a big change for sure, for this team."

The team is comprised of players from across Alberta, including Airdrie, Cochrane, Grande Prairie, Calgary, and Chestermere.

Between the nerves felt by players who'd been off the ice for a year and the larger crowd present in the bigger arena, the squad had a lot to contend with.

All things considered, Berven is proud of them.

"They played really well. They got close to that third and fourth goal. There were a lot of penalties, but it was really good hockey. A 4-2 score isn't anything to be ashamed about. They were competitive, and there's always work to do. Nothing but positive."

They'll host Calgary again this Friday, then they'll be on the road for a few weeks before returning to Okotoks Nov. 6.

 

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email news@okotoksonline.com