Former Bulls Favorite Joins Slammers Coaching Staff

Published on November 4, 2003 under World Hockey Association-2 (WHA2)
Alabama Slammers News Release


PELHAM, Ala. –Alabama Slammers Head Coach Garry Unger didn't have to look far for an assistant this season. At a press conference held at the Pelham Civic Complex today, Unger formally introduced former Birmingham Bulls great, Frank Beaton as the franchises Assistant Coach.

In making the announcement, Unger said, "Frank is an old school hockey guy with lots of experience. He originally came from Canada to play for Bulls and ended up settling in Birmingham because of his great relationship with the local fans. I've known of Frank for a long time in the hockey world and when we had a chance to get together to discuss him joining our coaching staff, the decision felt right for both of us. Frank is committed to working with the coaching staff this season and we are thrilled to have him be a part of our program."

Beaton played a key role in establishing Professional Hockey in the Magic City when he starred for the infamous Birmingham Bulls of the World Hockey Association (WHA) in the late 1970's. He won over the hearts of Birmingham's sports fans with his physical brand of play and charismatic personality. In his first season with the Bulls, Beaton recorded 15 points and an impressive 279 penalty minutes in just 59 games. His physical play didn't go unnoticed as the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL) signed him to contract the next season. Frank spent two years with the Rangers organization before returning back to Birmingham to play for the Bulls during the 1980-81 season. Beaton went on to play two more years before settling in Birmingham after starring for the Birmingham South Stars in 1983.

"It's both an honor and a privilege to be able to work along side one of the all-time greats like Garry Unger," said Beaton. "Garry's dedication to the game and to the development of young talent is unrivaled. My intent is to learn as much as I can through my association with Garry and work towards winning a Championship for our fans."

A native of Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Frank resides in Birmingham with his wife Judy, son Alex and daughter Catherine.

The Slammers open their regular season at the Pelham Civic Complex this Friday and Saturday, November 7th and 8th, when they host the Jacksonville Barracudas. Game time each night is 7:05pm. Friday's game features appearances by the world-famous Zooperstars and the Slammers' dance team, plus free Slammers t-shirt for the first 1,000 fans through the gates, courtesy of ABC 33/40, Frito-Lay and CDM. Miss Alabama will make a special appearance on Saturday, when the first 1,000 fans will receive Slammers schedule magnets, courtesy of FOX 6.

Tickets for opening weekend are going fast, reserve yours today at any Ticketmaster outlet, by phone at (205) 715-6000 or on-line at ticketmaster.com. Fans attending the games can also listen to the live play-by-play action on the Slammers' in-house transmitter, set at 89.7FM. John Meissner will call the play-by-play for all 60 games this season, on www.irn.fm.

For more information on the Alabama Slammers new Assistant Coach, please contact Taylor Hall at (205) 328-PUCK (7825). Frank Beaton may also be contacted for interviews at (205) 616-6296.

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World Hockey Association-2 Stories from November 4, 2003


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