Jacks Honored at CHL's Summer Conference
Published on June 8, 2009 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Odessa Jackalopes News Release
(Chandler, AZ) - The Central Hockey League honored the Odessa Jackalopes on Saturday with a pair of awards at the conclusion of the CHL's Summer Conference.
The Jackalopes were named the CHL's Most Improved Franchise for the 2008-2009 season, and its work in the Permian Basin community didn't go unnoticed as the Jacks brought home the Community Relations Franchise of the Year award.
"One of our biggest goals was to get more involved in the Permian Basin," said Jackalopes General Manager Joe Clark. "I'm not sure which award we're most proud of, but the fact our efforts in the community were noticed is flattering."
On the ice, the Jackalopes won the Southwest Division title and advanced for the first time to within one game of the CHL finals. The organization also produced the league's top scorer and CHL MVP in Sebastien Thinel. The Jacks' attendance at the Ector County Coliseum went up for the first time in five years - especially in the playoffs where they averaged more than 1,000 more fans per game than the previous season.
The Most Improved Franchise award, according to Clark, was a true team effort.
"We are most happy for our owners," said Clark, referring to Rick Gasser, and Bill & Tracey Nyborg. "We all feel things are going in the right direction now. We have a top-notch coaching staff, and our front-office staff had some fresh ideas and just rolled with them to do some pretty amazing things in the community."
"These awards are a reflection of everyone's hard work and deep passion for Jackalopes hockey."
After returning from the CHL's Summer Conference, the offseason continues for the Odessa Jackalopes as they prepare for the upcoming 2009-2010 season.
The Odessa Jackalopes are the Central Hockey League affiliate for the NHL's New York Islanders and the AHL's Bridgeport Sound Tigers. The team will begin its 13th season in October. Season tickets, mini-plans, and single game tickets are available by calling (432) 552-PUCK or visiting jackalopes.org.
Central Hockey League Stories from June 8, 2009
- Eagles Nominated for Eight of 14 League Awards, Take Home Two - Colorado Eagles
- Bucks Crown Baseball Challenge Winners - Laredo Bucks
- Bucks Crown Baseball Challenge Winners - Laredo Bucks
- RiverKings Named CHL Game Ops Franchise - Mississippi RiverKings
- Find Out With The Oilers At River Spirit Casino - Tulsa Oilers
- Brahmas Offer Contest To Win Cup For The Day - Fort Worth Brahmas
- Bucks Nominated For Four CHL Awards - Laredo Bucks
- Jacks Honored at CHL's Summer Conference - Odessa Jackalopes
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