CORNWALL ONTARIO – The River Kings are set to host the defending champion Jonquière Marquis on Saturday night. And one of Cornwall’s biggest fan’s – head coach Dean Lygitsakos – is happy to be coming back to the Seaway City.

“Cornwall was a priority for the league this off-season and we support the new ownership,” said Lygitsakos, who coaches arguably the LNAH’s toughest and most-skilled team. “We strongly believe in this market.”

Lygitsakos and local fans go way back. He was the head coach for the Louiseville Canadel when the Cornwall Comets played in the Quebec Senior AA League. “It’s one of my favourite places to play; I always look forward to coming to Cornwall,” he said. “I love the fans; they are very passionate. It’s really a love-hate relationship,” he said with a chuckle.

The defending champs are off to a great start – 3-0 heading into action Friday night in Rivière-du-Loup. With a pair of tough road games, Lygitsakos believes this weekend will be a true test for his hockey club.

Coach Dean has been keeping an eye on the River Kings over the past month as they’ve put together a strong squad. “I’m not surprised because they have the right people in place,” said Lygitsakos, who has nothing but respect for general manager Al Wagar. “And Steve (Simoes) was the right choice to coach; he’s an excellent leader.”

A spectacular home opener is planned for Saturday night at the Ed Lumley Arena. Tickets are $14 for adults, $10 for seniors/students and $5 for children under the age of 12. Action begins at 7:30 p.m.