Gamsby to retire, Lynx name Mueller general manager

October 13, 2005 - ECHL (ECHL)
Augusta Lynx News Release


Augusta Lynx general manager Paul Gamsby has announced that he is retiring from the team as of Friday, October 14th to pursue business opportunities with the More Space Place furniture franchise in Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC. Current Lynx assistant general manager Rob Mueller will succeed him in that position.

"This is an opportunity to work with my family and run my own business," said Gamsby. "I simply couldn't pass this up. It came down to a situation where I had to move quickly to ensure the franchise locations. I didn't know when this was going to happen, and I didn't expect it now, but the staff completely prepared. I am disappointed to be leaving now because I know this will be a banner year for the team both on and off the ice."

Gamsby also added that he is "absolutely not leaving for a position with another hockey team." He will also remain available in a consulting role to the club.

Gamsby, who has served as general manager twice, first came to the team before the club's inaugural 1998-99 season. Under his guidance, the franchise finished near the top of the ECHL's attendance figures in its first three seasons. After a two-year stint with the Richmond Renegades in the same position, Gamsby returned to Augusta at the start of the 2003-04 Season.

Mueller will take over from Gamsby effective immediately after serving the past two seasons as assistant general manager. He has been working with the league closely over the past year, handling all team correspondence with the ECHL and attending league meetings.

"The league is comfortable with Rob taking over," said Gamsby. "ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna has been very complimentary about the job he's been doing for the Lynx."

In addition to his experience with the franchise, Mueller also covered the team closely for almost seven years as a reporter for the Augusta Chronicle, dating back to the first announcement of the then-Raleigh Ice Caps' intentions to relocate. During his tenure with the Chronicle, Mueller was named the ECHL's Hockey News beat reporter, enabling him to establish strong contacts throughout the hockey world.

"I am looking forward to a new chapter in my career," said Mueller. "Paul has prepared me for this very well, as has my time in the hockey community. I feel confident that the Lynx will be successful both on and off the ice."

As far as the hockey side of operations, Gamsby has full confidence in head coach and director of hockey operations Bob Ferguson.

"Bob was brought in to get the hockey side of things back on track," said Gamsby. "He's developed a solid relationship with the Albany River Rats and their general manager Chris Lamoriello, while also bringing his own vast network of hockey contacts to the table. His record speaks for itself, and his experience and winning history is invaluable. We are very fortunate to have him leading the team on the ice."

Finally, Gamsby wanted to say thanks.

"The fans and sponsors here in Augusta have been tremendous. Everything we are is because of them, and I just can't thank them enough for their tremendous support of this team."

The Lynx are currently in training camp preparing for their eighth season in the ECHL in Augusta. Opening night is October 21st against the South Carolina Stingrays, with puck drop slated for 7:05 pm. Radio coverage can be found all season long on NEWSTALKSPORTS 1630, WRDW-AM beginning with the Classic Stucco and Stone Pre-Game Show one half-hour before faceoff. Season and group tickets are on sale now by calling (706) 724-4ICE.



ECHL Stories from October 13, 2005


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