Spokane Chiefs announce full 2017-18 Western Hockey League schedule

The Spokane Chiefs’ 2017-18 regular season schedule was announced by the Western Hockey League on Tuesday afternoon in Calgary, Alberta, including all 36 home games to be played at Spokane Arena, beginning with the home opener on Saturday, Sept. 30 against Kootenay.

The Chiefs open their 72-game campaign on the road for back-to-back games against the Prince George Cougars on Sept. 22 and 23.

The Chiefs’ home schedule is evenly balanced for the 2017-18 season as they will host opponents at the Arena for at least six games in every month from October to February. Spokane will play 10-12 total games in every month (except September).

The Arena will host 25 weekend games, including 11 on Friday nights, 12 on Saturdays and on two Sundays. They’ll head east for their annual trip east on Oct. 22-27, facing four of the six Central Division teams. The annual holiday break will take place Dec. 18-26, bracketed on either side by home games against the Seattle Thunderbirds on Dec. 17 and 27.

In addition to Opening Night on Sept. 30, Spokane will host the rival Tri-City Americans for the first time on Saturday, Oct. 14 for the annual HOCKtoberfest at the Arena.

Bring your throwing arms on Saturday, Dec. 9 for the holiday tradition Teddy Bear Toss presented by The Spokesman-Review Christmas Fund.

The full 2017-18 promotional schedule, including Buck Nights and more, will be announced at a later date.