The Brockville Braves will open their pre-season on September 1, 2026, hosting the newly rebranded Pembroke Royals at the Brockville Memorial Civic Centre. The game kicks off a four-game exhibition schedule for the Braves and marks the first chance for local fans to see the team under new ownership and a fresh coaching staff.
In June, ownership of the Braves transitioned from Hani Greiss and Gratiela Dima to local investor Kris Hodgins, a former CCHL player. At the same time, Andy Bryan was hired as head coach, with Derek Schoenmakers joining as associate coach. Bryan brings over 25 years of hockey experience, including his role as Senior Director with the Ottawa Senators organization. Schoenmakers played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League and was a two-time MVP at Laurier University before becoming Head of Hockey Development with the Ottawa Senators at their Sensplex facilities.
Former head coach Ryan Leonard departed in June to pursue an opportunity in another league. Goalie coach Donnie Bruni remains with the club.
The Pembroke Royals are a new franchise name, replacing the Pembroke Lumber Kings after a legal dispute and league restructuring. Kevin Rosebrugh was hired as the Royals’ first head coach. The Royals finished last season with a 10-42-2 record.
The Braves’ regular season begins September 16, 2026, as part of the CCHL’s 330-game schedule across 12 teams. Brockville plays home games at the Brockville Memorial Civic Centre, which seats 1,800.
