AHL Hershey Bears

Bears welcome Washington Capitals as new NHL affiliate

Published on April 26, 2005 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Hershey Bears News Release


HERSHEY – The HERSHEY BEARS announced today in conjunction with the NHL's Washington Capitals that the two clubs have entered into an affiliation agreement for the upcoming 2005-06 season. The announcement was made jointly today by BEARS President/GM Doug Yingst and Capitals' General Manager George McPhee.

"We are excited to announce our partnership with the historic HERSHEY BEARS," said Capitals general manager George McPhee. "They are a great organization and a model franchise in the AHL. The Capitals look forward to a successful relationship that will benefit everyone involved."

There are currently 20 different players in the Washington system that were either first or second round choices under the age of 25, and 13 of those players played for the AHL's Portland Pirates in 2004-05 as Washington's former AHL partner. Less than 140 miles separate the MCI Center, the home of the Capitals in Washington, D.C., and GIANT Center.

"We are thrilled to have the chance to partner with a NHL club like the Washington Capitals," said BEARS President/GM Doug Yingst. "HERSHEY and Washington are a natural fit because of the young talent within the Capitals' organization and the geography of having our parent club just a short drive away. We are very much looking forward to a prosperous working relationship."

The Capitals previously placed their prospects in HERSHEY from 1977-1984, with the BEARS winning a Calder Cup Championship in 1980.

In conjunction with this announcement, the BEARS have released information regarding 2005-06 season ticket packages. New for this season: the first 3,000 40-game season ticket holders will receive a voucher good for two 100 level seats at a Washington Capitals home game at the MCI Center in Washington subject to availability. Season tickets are on sale now by calling (717) 508-BEAR or by e-mailing seasontickets@HersheyPa.com.

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American Hockey League Stories from April 26, 2005


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