A North Bay - Sudbury hockey game always draws special interest, but the Battalion - Wolves game this Friday will be extra special.
Sponsored by the Ottawa Senators, it will feature former Centennial fan favourite Chris Neil. He played three seasons with the Centennials, racking up 156 points in 190 games, including a 72 point season in 1998-99.
See: Former Centennial honoured by Ottawa Senators
Neil was also a team mate of current North Bay Battalion Assistant Coach Scott Wray with the Centennials starting with the 1996-97 season.
The Senators alternate captain was drafted in the sixth round, 161st overall, in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, and played his entire NHL career with the organization.
He retired from the Senators last year after spending 16 seasons in the Nations Capital.
Neil will be available to sign autographs and meet and greet fans starting at 5:30 in Memorial Gardens main concourse. Fans are encouraged to bring Senators or Centennials items to be signed. Printed Neil photos will also be available.
The Flesherton native, who now lives in Ottawa, is an Alumni Ambassador for the Sens.
The North Bay Battalion return to action at home on Friday Night at 7:00 pm when they host the Sudbury Wolves.
