The new Okotoks Bow Mark "AAA" Midget Oilers are inching closer to reality.

The team, made up of what used to the "AAA" Midget Bisons based out of Strathmore will start their first hockey season in Okotoks in August.

Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association President John Wilson says it's been a while coming.

"We gave notice to Hockey Alberta that we'd love to have a franchise in Okotoks a couple of years ago. It's really dependent on them and what they see as far as their draw zone. They came back to us last year and said they weren't quite ready. They came back to us again this year and said they thought Okotoks was a great fit for a "AAA" Midget team. So we're excited.

Wilson says it'll also be a better opportunity for kids from High River, Vulcan, Turner Valley and Black Diamond to be able to play at the "AAA" Midget level, with it being a lot closer to home.

Wilson says right now they're busy hiring staff, getting ice time at the Centennial Arena, along with buying uniforms and all the other things that need to be done before the season starts.

He says the plan is to move into the new arena next to the Centennial Arena when it's completed next year.