A Look Back at the History of the Richmond Sockeyes
The Richmond Sockeyes have been a proud part of British Columbia’s junior hockey landscape for more than five decades. Founded in 1972 by longtime Richmond resident Bruce Allison, the team was built with a vision: to bring top-level hockey to the community while giving players the chance to stay close to home and remain committed to their education. The name “Sockeyes” was Allison’s nod to the region’s ties to the Pacific and its salmon heritage—an identity that has carried through generations of players and fans alike.
Early Years and Junior A Success
The Sockeyes quickly established themselves as one of the province’s top junior hockey teams. In 1973–74, they became one of the founding members of the Pacific Junior A Hockey League (PJHL), competing alongside the Coquitlam Comets, Surrey Stampeders, and Chilliwack Bruins. With Doug Paterson—who would later become a team owner—as their first captain, the Sockeyes set the tone for a legacy of leadership and excellence.
The late 1970s were a golden era. The Sockeyes became PJHL champions and went on to defeat the BCJHL champions in both 1977 and 1979, earning the prestigious Mowat Cup as B.C. Junior A Champions. Their strong performances solidified their reputation as a powerhouse.
In 1979, the PJHL and BCJHL merged, and the Sockeyes made the transition along with them. From 1979 to 1990, Richmond consistently competed at a high level, finishing first in the league three times and capturing the league championship in 1987.
Junior B Glory
The early 1990s brought another highlight when Richmond defeated the Abbotsford Pilots in the 1990–91 PIJHL playoffs, then went on to beat the Nelson Leafs in the Cyclone Taylor Cup to claim the provincial title.
The Sockeyes have since become synonymous with excellence in the Pacific Junior Hockey League (PIJHL). Over the years, they’ve racked up numerous championships, including:
2003 – Bronze at the Keystone Cup after narrowly missing the title game.
2004 – PIJHL Championship, Cyclone Taylor Cup, and second place at the Keystone Cup.
2009 – A rare triple crown year: PIJHL Champions, Cyclone Taylor Cup Champions, and Keystone Cup winners.
These victories placed Richmond firmly among the most respected junior hockey organizations in Western Canada.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
The Sockeyes’ story is also one of family legacy. In the 2012–13 season, Dean Allison, grandson of the team’s original founder, carried on his grandfather’s vision by leading the team as its regular season and playoff top scorer and earning team MVP honors. His contributions linked the franchise’s rich past with its promising future.
More Than Just Hockey
Through all the championships and milestones, the Richmond Sockeyes have remained true to Bruce Allison’s original mission: to provide young athletes with the opportunity to play at a high level while staying rooted in their community. Generations of players have worn the red and white, developing not only their skills on the ice but also the discipline, teamwork, and character that come with being part of a storied hockey program.
As the Sockeyes continue their journey, they carry with them a tradition of excellence, community pride, and a deep respect for the game. Richmond’s hockey history wouldn’t be complete without them—and their story is still being written.
