The BCHL announced on Aug. 11 that the Cowichan Valley Capitals have a new majority owner in Ray Zhang of Beijing, China.
“This transaction is the first time someone from China has purchased an overseas hockey franchise," said Zhang in a press release. "It will open a door for hockey families in China to learn about Canadian hockey first hand. This link to Canadian hockey will prove valuable to encourage all of our young hockey players in China."
“Ray is as passionate about hockey as anyone and he will be playing a leading role in the growth of hockey in China,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale. “We are pleased to have him join our league and take a place at the board of governors table. His input and insight from a new perspective will be extremely valuable.”
The Caps are coming off a season where they qualified for the playoffs for the first time in three years and are hoping this news will add energy to the program as it works back to being a power in the BCHL's Island Division.
“Ray is looking forward to working with the local ownership and has ambitious visions for the team,” said Caps head coach Bob Beatty.
Zhang and his family will be relocating to Duncan.
“I am extremely honoured and excited to be involved with the Cowichan Valley Capitals," said Zhang. "The Capitals have a reputation of having the best fans in the league and my family and I look forward to being part of the community.”