Prince George, B.C. – Rowdy Cat made an appearance at Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park Friday to help out with the Mental Health Association Western Picnic.

It was yet another example of how the Prince George Cougars, under new management, have been making deeper inroads in the city.

Rowdy Cat mingles with two young fans – photo 250 News

“It is a way to reach out to the community. We’re not trying to make a big deal out it, but we think it’s our responsibility and privilege to do this type of thing and we love doing it,” says Cougars V-P of Business, Andy Beesley. “I can tell you almost every other day we do an event of some sort and try to support the community.”

He adds it’s also a way for the organization to be more than just a hockey team.

“We want the Cougars to be a part of what makes Prince George a great place to live. We want people to puff out their chest and be proud of the Cougars, and ultimately round of Prince George.”

Beesley says the outreach is also paying off at the box-office, noting he expects attendance to increase yet again next season.

“We know we’re going to have more people at the games, we have ambitious plans for ticket sales and I can tell you tickets are already starting to fly off the shelves quickly.”