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CHL Mississippi RiverKings

RiverKings, DCC Sign Three-Year Lease Agreement

August 6, 2010 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Mississippi RiverKings News Release


SOUTHAVEN, MS --- Maddox Hockey, Inc, which owns and operates the Mississippi RiverKings professional hockey team, announced today (August 6th, 2010) that it has entered into a new three-year lease agreement extension with the DeSoto Civic Center, effective in October of this year.

"We are delighted to extend our partnership with the DeSoto Civic Center (DCC), Desoto County and our fans across the entire Mid-South through the 2012-2013 season," said "Ab" Mattice, Director of Business Operations for the RiverKings.

The RiverKings will play 33 home games this year, beginning with their home opener with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs on Saturday, October 16th. The team has qualified for the Central Hockey League playoffs in each of the last four seasons, and won the CHL championship in its 2001-2002 and 2002-2003 seasons.

"Our relationship with the DCC allows us to provide one of the most affordable professional sports programs in the region," said Mattice, "and it is a great place to watch a hockey game. The building was designed around the needs of a professional hockey team, and that allows us to put on a great show for the entire family."

The new lease will also give the RiverKings greater opportunities to partner with the DCC on ticket and concession packages that provide greater value to the fans, according to Mattice.

"The Civic Center and the RiverKings will benefit greatly from the new lease," said Chuck Roberts, Convention and Visitors Bureau Board Chair. "Our agreement places an emphasis on increasing attendance at RiverKings games, and we will continue to partner with the RiverKings to promote the team as a premier entertainment attraction in the region."

"We appreciate the willingness of the DCC to continue its historic relationship with the RiverKings, and to incorporate changes we believe will increase the stability of the team in the long run," said Mike Ward, Maddox Foundation's Director of Programs, who oversees the Foundation's investments in the team. Under the new lease, the RiverKings will only make rental payments during the hockey season, and the amount of payments are tied to attendance at the team's games. "It's very simple," said Ward, "when attendance goes up, we and the building benefit."

The RiverKings receive all revenues from ticket sales, and as well as shared revenues from suite rentals, sales of signage in the arena, and parking fees.

"We take great pride in the role the RiverKings play in supporting charitable work in the community," said Whitley Rives, Community Development Coordinator for the RiverKings. "From our annual Face Off Field Trip for elementary school students to player appearances, merchandise donations and our work with youth hockey programs, our entire organization is committed to investing in local causes and programs."

Nonprofit organizations interested in raising funds, increasing volunteerism and gaining publicity for their work should contact Rives at 662-342-1755 to take advantage of these programs.

"This should be a very good year for the RiverKings on the ice," said Bob Bakken, Media Coordinator for the team. "Team captain Derek Landmesser has already been signed, along with Louis Dumont, Matt Summers and Darrell Stoddard, all of whom have had excellent seasons for the past several years." Coach Kevin Kaminski, now in his third year leading the team, has moved into second place all-time in career winning percentage among RiverKings coaches at .641 (77-41-10).

One of the stipulations of the agreement that impacts RiverKings fans directly is a parking fee of $5.00 per vehicle, although as an added benefit each season ticket holder account will receive a free parking pass good for all games, thus making the purchase of RiverKings' season tickets the most economical way of following your hometown professional hockey team.

School buses, church buses and similar vehicles bringing large groups to games are exempt from the parking charge.

Fans purchasing individual tickets through the DeSoto Civic Center box office will pay an additional $1.00 facility maintenance fee per ticket similar to all ticketed concerts and special events at the DCC.

The RiverKings franchise has played hockey at the DeSoto Civic Center since the building opened in September of 2000. This year will mark the franchise's 19th year in the Mid-South region.

Season ticket prices begin at $252, and other flexible ticket packages are available from the RiverKings office by calling 662-342-1755. The team also offers a special ticket fundraising program through which nonprofit organizations can raise funds to support local charitable causes. Visit www.riverkings.com for additional information.



Central Hockey League Stories from August 6, 2010


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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