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AHL Norfolk Admirals

Norfolk Admirals Sold to Anaheim Ducks

January 30, 2015 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Norfolk Admirals News Release


NORFOLK, Va. - The Norfolk Admirals announce today the official sale of the American Hockey League (AHL) franchise to the National Hockey League's (NHL) Anaheim Ducks.

Anaheim joins Calgary, Edmonton, Los Angeles and San Jose in the group of NHL organizations moving their AHL affiliate west to form a Pacific Division. The newly-formed division will exist starting in the 2015-16 season.

As a result of the transaction, the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) have agreed to move their ECHL affiliate from Bakersfield, California to Norfolk.

"These transfers represent a major move by the ECHL and a significant transformation of the minor league hockey landscape," ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna said. "While we are exiting some strong, traditional ECHL markets in California, the move is in the best, long-term interest of hockey and will allow for better alignment in the development system."

Admirals hockey returns to the ECHL after a 15-year membership in the AHL. Known as the Hampton Roads Admirals from 1989 until 2000, the team won three ECHL championships, including back-to-back Riley Cups in 1991 and 1992, and the first-ever Kelly Cup in 1997. The Admirals are currently tied for the most ECHL championships by any franchise in league history and also lead with nine inductees to the ECHL Hall of Fame that have been members of the Admirals organization.

"The Norfolk Admirals are proud to be able to continue to bring professional hockey to Norfolk as we start a new chapter in our rich history," said Admirals Vice President Joe Gregory. " We remain committed to providing quality hockey and affordable family entertainment to Hampton Roads . The Edmonton Oilers and the ECHL are both tremendous partners. We look forward to working together with them next year and for years to come."

Oilers President of Hockey Operations Kevin Lowe says, "We are very excited to open a new chapter with our ECHL team moving to Norfolk, a city with a deep history for the game. Norfolk is a great place for our young players to learn and develop and we look forward to working with the fans and the city of Norfolk."

"We welcome the return of Norfolk and the Admirals' fans in the Hampton Roads area back to the ECHL. The Admirals were an outstanding Member of the ECHL for many years, winning three championships and receiving strong fan support," McKenna added. "We look forward to working with the Oilers' organization in conjunction with Ken Young to continue that strong tradition."

Norfolk is in Binghamton, New York to begin a three-in-three on the road this weekend. The Admirals battle the Senators tonight at 7:05 p.m. on 1650 AM WHKT and AHLLive.com.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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