Knights Announce Playoff Plans

April 9, 2007 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Abbotsford Heat News Release


For the first time in the franchise's young history, the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights will be taking part in the American Hockey League's Calder Cup Playoffs. The post-season will begin the week of April 16th.

"This is an exciting time for our players and coaches," said Ren Smith, Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' President. "They have worked all season long to have a chance to play for the Calder Cup. It shows that the Calgary Flames' mission to develop players for the National Hockey League has been successful here. The Flames are committed to Omaha, and we have already begun preparations for the 2007-08 season.

"This is a great time to be a fan because the best hockey of the season is still ahead. We can't wait to welcome fans from all over Omaha to the Civic for our playoff games," Smith said. "Whether you're a long-time fan or someone who is seeing our brand of hockey for the first time, we think everyone is going to enjoy the excitement and the atmosphere of the post-season."

The Ak-Sar-Ben Knights still have four games remaining in their regular season, two of which will be played at the Civic Auditorium this week. On Tuesday, the Knights will host the San Antonio Rampage at 7:00 p.m. in the make-up of a game originally schedule for December 22nd. The Knights will conclude the home half of the regular season on Friday, April 13th against Peoria at 7:00 p.m. They then finish the week with games in Peoria on Saturday and in Chicago on Sunday. Season ticket holders are encouraged to bring a friend and show them some of the best hockey of the year.

The Knights still do not know who they will play in the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs. That information will be announced later this week.

As part of the pre-playoff festivities, the Knights are planning a number of events beginning with Fan Appreciation Night on Friday against Peoria. Players will be presented with year-end awards chosen by a vote of Knights' fans. Some lucky fans will win prizes given away throughout the night.

On Tuesday, April 17th, the Knights will hold a Fan Fest at the Civic Auditorium beginning at 5:00 p.m. There will be food and beverages, a meet and greet with Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' players and coaches, an open skate and merchandise sales. In addition, season ticket holders will be able to pick-up their playoff ticket packages. The event is tentative and will be determined by the start of the Knights' first round playoff series.

In addition, the Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' Booster Club will be holding family-friendly tailgate parties throughout the postseason. The largest is tentatively slated for April 21st, again to be determined by first round playoff dates.

Tickets for all Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' remaining regular season games are on sale at the Omaha Civic Auditorium box office Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets also are available through all Ticketmaster outlets and by phone at (402) 422-1212. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult on tickets purchased after 5:00 p.m. Other restrictions apply.



American Hockey League Stories from April 9, 2007


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