The Hockey News has been providing the most comprehensive coverage of the world of hockey since 1947. Each week, we’ll dig back into the magazine’s archives to look back on a key moment, player or other important figure in the ECHL.
Change is a part of any league, particularly in the ECHL. This week, we look back to 2004, a time that saw the league address possible expansion and movement of existing franchises.
(Photo Courtesy of the ECHL)
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Feb 10, 2004/vol. 57, issue 23
Growth still in ECHL’s long-term plans
BY ROB MUELLER
Basking in the glory of a successful All-Star Game hosted by Peoria, ECHL commissioner Brian McKenna painted a rosy picture for the league during a media teleconference.
McKenna touched on most of the issues addressed at the league’s board of governors meetings, from the visor rule to updates on potential new markets to the future of several existing franchises said to be in trouble.
According to McKenna, the Victoria (B.C.) Salmon Kings, set to start next season, have sold more than 2,500 season tickets and have sold out all luxury suites.
“The arena (construction) is on schedule, if not a little bit ahead of schedule.”
McKenna said representatives from three potential new markets - Burlington, Vt., Ontario, Calif., and Reno, Nev. gave updates on their status for 2005-06.
The owners of the Ontario franchise, the dormant West Coast League team in Tacoma, will relocate it to Bloomington, k Ill. McKenna said all 31 existing ECHL teams are planning for 2004-05, but there could be some movement this off-season.
Atlantic City has been rumoured to be headed for New Orleans, while struggling franchises in Cincinnati and Roanoke are on thin ice.
On visors, league officials said no serious eye injuries have been reported, but McKenna admits some teams are concerned about the increase in stickwork. McKenna also said attendance is up 5.1 per cent league-wide over last season, reversing a five-year trend of declining attendance.
STAR POWER More than 7,200 fans attended the All-Star Game, won 7-6 by the Eastern Conference thanks to four goals in the third period. Peoria winger Randy Rowe scored two goals, including the winner, and was named MVP.
The Reading (Pa.) Royals will host next year.
NOTEBOOK Louisiana’s Alex Materukhin scored three goals in 3:22 in the third period in a 5-1 win over Florida Jan. 25…Toledo removed the “interim” from coach Nick Vitucci’s title Jan. 26. He replaced Steve Harrison Dec. 20.