The run to the Fred Page Cup finals was the highlight for the Clippers organization in a memorable 2022. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

Goodbye to 2022

VIDEO: Clippers close the book on an eventful and successful 2022

Jan 4, 2023 | 1:10 PM

NANAIMO — The Clippers had a number of major events on and off the ice in 2022.

A sudden leave of absence for the coaches in February, a six week run to the BCHL finals in the spring, an ownership change in the summer, and a first place standing in the Coastal Division at the end of December.

Nanaimo native Brett Merner was there through it all and said the post season run in April and May is what he will remember most.

“The thing that sticks out for me, and I think if you asked a lot of the other guys who were here too, is the playoff run. Nothing else even comes close.

More specifically the second round sweep of the Chilliwack Chiefs has stuck with him.

targeted job action

Striking Nanaimo postal workers disrupt Purolator operations

1h ago

final flight

Massive Philippine Mars waterbomber preparing for final Island departure

6h ago

Skatepark refresh

Town of Ladysmith seeks public insight in reforming skateboard park

20h ago

“That Chillwack series and particularly Game 3 with the Keighan Gerrie overtime winner really stands out.”

At the beginning of 2022 current assistant coach Bob Beatty was working as a scout in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.

He came to Nanaimo to help out behind the bench while the previous coaching staff was on leave.

When he showed up in January he didn’t know if he’d be a part of the group for a few games or a few months, but he’s become a permanent fixture with the organization.

“I feel blessed,” Beatty said. “It’s very enjoyable to coach this group and be a part of great staff.”

The highlight was the playoff run for Beatty as well and he wants the current squad to have similar success down the line.

“It was a great run for the team and for me personally and we’re hoping to build on that.”

Nanaimo finished out 2022 with back to back road games in Surrey and Langley.

They lost 6-2 to the Eagles on Friday, Dec. 30 but concluded the calendar year with a 4-3 triumph over the Rivermen.

At the start of 2023 the Clippers have a six point lead on Surrey for first place in the Coastal Division standings.

CLIP NOTES:

In 2022 the Clippers finished with a record of 40-12-2-3 in regular season play. They also went 12-4 in the BCHL playoffs.

Nanaimo opens 2023 with a home game against Alberni Valley on Friday, Jan. 6. They visit Victoria on Jan. 7.

The Clippers will play five of their six games in January on home ice and then finish the season with 13 of their final 18 games on the road.

Join the conversation. Submit your letter to NanaimoNewsNOW and be included on The Water Cooler, our letters to the editor feature.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW