In a large news conference at the CTC Friday morning, Andlauer was introduced to Ottawa Senators fans for the first time.
Since winning the ownership bidding war back in June, Michael Andlauer has mostly been referred to as the Ottawa Senators' "incoming" owner. On Friday morning – now that all the necessary paperwork had finally been signed – Andlauer officially arrived.
"I'm finally home," Andlauer announced today at a Canadian Tire Centre news conference.
Andlauer officially took over majority control of the club on Thursday and today, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman introduced him to the city of Ottawa.
"(Michael Andlauer) knows the game, he cares about the game, he's passionate about the game," Bettman said. "And that's why I couldn't be more excited about the future of this franchise. And so we are all delighted and excited to welcome you and your group to the NHL. This is gonna be terrific. So welcome!"
Andlauer then proceeded to say all the right things to a fan base that had grown used to hearing all the wrong things.
"I guess I can say, finally, we did it," Andlauer said. "And it was only 321 days ago when I found out that the Senators were going to be up for sale. It's been a long road, but I must tell you it's been worth the journey. I can really say I'm finally home.
"I'm so mixed with so many emotions. And it reminds me of my wedding day – excited, overwhelmed a little bit, nervous, but I'm happy, knowing that I'm in a good company and the future looks very bright. And, by the way... I've been extremely happily married for the last 27 years, so these emotions are the right emotions, I guess, right? So this is good. This is a good thing."
The easy going Andlauer came off as likeable and gracious right out of the gate. He wasn't having any of this "Mr. Andlauer" business, insisting that everyone call him Michael. He stressed the fact he's an employee-first businessman and a player-first team owner. He thanked everyone that needed to be thanked, flaunted his love of being the underdog, even taking a playful dig at Ottawa's two biggest rivals.
"We play between two major markets, Toronto-Montreal," Andlauer said. "They both believe they're the centre of the hockey universe. I've been the underdog all my life, and I know we have the team, the staff, the fans, the community to prove them wrong. So while I officially wear the title of owner of the Ottawa Senators, I understand that this city and the fans, you're the true owners.
"I promise to take care of your team with the utmost respect, integrity, and care, both on and off the ice."
Right away, Andlauer has already made two popular moves, officially re-hiring Cyril Leeder as CEO and promoting CFO Erin Crowe to the dual role of COO. Under often trying circumstances, that pair managed to accomplish tremendous things in their time with the Senators. One can only imagine how they'll thrive now in a fresh, positive work environment, no longer drenched in volatility and paranoia.
Andlauer even checks the bilingualism box, which is excellent news for a potential Gatineau fan base that has long felt like it didn't matter to the organization.
As for Bettman, who's been league commissioner since the Senators' very first season, he couldn't be happier about the current state of the franchise, which has had its share of historical ups and downs.
"I don't think there's ever been a season... where there's been more optimism about the future of this franchise, both on and off the ice."
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