Jackals Welcomed Unanimously Into The ECHL
Published on April 13, 2007 under International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Elmira Jackals News Release
Elmira, NY - The Elmira Jackals announced today that they have been unanimously accepted to enter the ECHL as a member of the North Division for the 2007-2008 season.
In a public meeting held by the Jackals at First Arena on Friday evening, Jackals Team President Tamer Afr and ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna declared that the 2007-2008 season, their 8th year of operation, would be Elmira's inaugural season in the ECHL. The Jackals first year in their new league will be quite fitting as the ECHL is preparing to celebrate its 20th Anniversary as the Premier 'AA' Hockey League.
"We are thrilled to be a team in the North Division of the ECHL," said Jackals team president Tamer Afr. "This move for the Jackals is a perfect fit for both the team and our fans. Geographically our team travel schedule will be much more cost effective and much less grueling on our players. We will develop instant rivalries with our closest opponents, Reading, Johnstown and Trenton and their proximity will allow our fans to take less daunting road trips within our division."
"The ECHL is pleased to welcome Elmira to our North Division," said ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna. "Seven years of operational experience, a modern facility and a good geographical fit make Elmira a natural fit for our league. I am sure the fans of Elmira will enjoy ECHL hockey for many years to come."
The Jackals will be a member of the North Division, which currently includes the Dayton Bombers, Toledo Storm, Cincinnati Cyclones, Wheeling Nailers, Johnstown Chiefs, Reading Royals and Trenton Titans. Three of those teams: Johnstown, Reading and Trenton are within four hours drive from Elmira.
"Because the ECHL sends more players to the NHL than any other AA League, we think the fans will enjoy seeing the game's young prospects as well as the exciting brand of hockey on the ice," said Afr. "We feel that joining the ECHL is the first step towards bringing our organization to the next level."
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