Bulldogs Reach Affiliation Agreement with Ancaster
August 20, 2015 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Brantford Bulldogs News Release
HAMILTON, ONT. - The Hamilton Bulldogs Hockey Club announced today that the club has reached an affiliation agreement with the Ancaster Avalanche of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League.
With the agreement, the 'Dogs will be able to assign affiliated young players to play and develop with the local Jr. B team. "We're excited to establish a strong working relationship with the Ancaster Avalanche," said Bulldogs General Manager and Head Coach George Burnett. He adds, "Through Ryan's (Kuwabara) excellent leadership the Ancaster program is well structured both on and off the ice and they are committed to developing young players. We look forward to creating a partnership that helps both programs succeed.
Ancaster owner Ron Van Kleef is excited that the partnership has come together, "We are pleased to be a partner and affiliate of the Hamilton Bulldogs, and look forward to the best junior hockey in Hamilton and the surrounding communities. I am impressed with the professional approach in building the team from the top level down to the players on the ice. I am confident it will bring an exciting brand of hockey to the Hamilton area. The Ancaster Avalanche Junior Hockey Club wishes them continued success in the future."
The Ancaster Avalanche Jr. B club was established in 2013 after the Stoney Creek Warriors relocated to Ancaster. In two seasons in the GOJHL, the Avalanche has compiled a record of 53-35-10. The team plays out of Morgan Firestone Arena. Bulldogs President Steve Staios is pleased to connect with another group in the community, "This is a great day when we can connect to another high quality hockey club in the area and deepen our bond with the Hamilton community. We want the entire region to feel connected to the Bulldogs and this is another step in that process."
Avalanche General Manager and Head Coach Ryan Kuwabara, thinks the collaboration will be great for the Hamilton hockey community. ""I am very excited that the OHL Hamilton Bulldogs have chosen the Ancaster Avalanche to be their junior affiliate. Our organization has worked very hard to be considered the top junior team in the Hamilton area. With this partnership, it only confirms that we are doing the things the right way. Given our hockey teams being in such close proximity, it will be very beneficial for our hockey club to have such a great resource in the Hamilton Bulldogs to continue to improve and develop our players."
Hamilton begins the regular season September 25th as they take on the Knights in London. The home opener is set for September 26th against Oshawa.
OHL hockey returns to Hamilton this September! Bulldogs season tickets are on sale now. For as little as $12 per game, don't miss your chance to see the future stars of the National Hockey League today in Hamilton. Call 1-866-DOGS-TIX (364-7849) or visit hamiltonbulldogs.com for more information.
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