Delia Honored, 'Bugs Nominated for Two Other CHL Awards

June 11, 2009 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs News Release


BOSSIER CITY, LA - The Central Hockey League announced this week that Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs President & General Manager Ray Delia has been named the 2009 CHL Executive of the Year. Bossier-Shreveport was also nominated for two additional awards at the league's annual Summer Conference held this past weekend. The Mudbugs were nominated for Most Improved Franchise and play-by-play announcer Travis Huntington was a finalist for Broadcaster of the Year.

This is the second time Delia has received Executive of the Year honors in his career, taking home the award from the Western Professional Hockey League in 2000 during his first stint with the Mudbugs. After departing Bossier-Shreveport, he was a nominee for ECHL Executive of the Year twice during his time with the Reading Royals from 2000-2005. After stays in Phoenix of the ECHL and Moncton of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Delia returned to the Mudbugs last summer as the club's President & General Manager.

"Ray went above and beyond this season in continuing the tradition the Mudbugs have set in previous seasons as well as setting the franchise up for a positive future," said CHL Commissioner Duane Lewis. "His dedication and efforts were noticed all around the league."

"I'm honored to have this award presented to me by the Central Hockey League," Delia said. "I really believe that this type of recognition is a reflection of individuals who have touched my career and offered their wisdom and experience as an investment in me. I would be remiss if I didn't thank Wes Westley and Robert Irving, both men who mentored me as a professional, trusted me as an executive, and challenged me to pursue my potential. Also, special thanks to John Madden for his trust, confidence, and the privilege of returning to this organization and wonderful community."

Under Delia's guidance, the Mudbugs' restructuring of operations, increase in sponsorships and ticket revenue last season led to the club's nomination as the CHL's Most Improved Franchise for 2008-09.

"The Mudbugs have always been a strong league member but the strides they made this season in re-establishing their presence in all the business categories made them a perfect nomination for Most Improved franchise," Lewis said.

"It is a testament to the entire business and hockey staff to be nominated for the Most Improved Franchise," remarked Delia. "The entire group played a role in the significant improvement we experienced this past season."

Huntington was among the finalists for 2009 CHL Broadcaster of the Year for the second consecutive season. He also earned a nomination for the award in 2007-08, his first year with the Mudbugs.

"Travis has been considered one of the best at his craft since he came into the league a short time ago and he has continually worked to get better and better to perfect his craft," said CHL Director of Communications Bob Hoffman. "His on-air demeanor and class are noticed by all."

"I am extremely proud of Travis," Delia commented. "After just two seasons behind the microphone, he is recognized by the league as a standout broadcaster. I'm confident he will continue to improve and progress to higher levels of hockey."



Central Hockey League Stories from June 11, 2009


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