ECHL South Carolina Stingrays

Thank You, Fans

Published on April 26, 2010 under ECHL (ECHL)
South Carolina Stingrays News Release


The 2009-10 season was truly a season to remember. Over 173,000 fans made their way through the turnstiles of North Charleston Coliseum and the Stingrays wish to say thank you for all of your support on a record-breaking season. We caught up with Stingrays Head Coach Cail MacLean as he reflected on the past campaign:

"One of my favorite teammates had a saying for times like this: "The sun will come up tomorrow.' He was right years ago and he is still right today. Although our goal as a professional hockey team is always win a championship, we have to be careful not to lose perspective if we come up short in that endeavor. There were many happenings over this season that made me proud of our team and very appreciative of our fans."

"One weekend that I look back on fondly is the "Pink in the Rink Weekend.' Our team fired on every cylinder (note: talk to front office about "Pink in the Rink Month' next season), our front office worked tirelessly to create a great event and most importantly, our fans generously donated over $40,000 to a great cause."

"From the drop of the puck on opening night, we enjoyed constant support from our fans during an eventful season. Whether we were working to set a franchise record for consecutive wins or just trying to find a win during a tough weekend, we knew that if we took pride in our play we could count on our fans to be behind us."

"As a team in a developmental league, it is important that our organization emphasizes professionalism and consistency along with winning. Now, as the sun begins to rise on a new season, I would like to give my huge thanks to all of the Stingrays fans that cheered us on and held us accountable in those areas all season long. Have a great summer."

Stingrays Tickets: A Stingrays ticket package is the best way to save money on your seats and get all the great benefits associated with being a part of the team! Benefits include free parking, unlimited ticket exchange, Coliseum MVP Club, access to the Stingrays Hall of Fame Lounge and VIP entrance and discounts on Stingrays merchandise.

"I enjoy sitting in the same seat every game and getting to know the other fans around me," said season ticket holder Dionne Welsh. "Not only does my family save money on tickets, but we get to enjoy all the great benefits and feel closer to the team. I feel that the Stingrays are the best family venue in Charleston and that's what keeps us coming back." Become a part of the Stingrays by calling (843) 744-2248

The Off-Season: Now that the season is over, many Stingrays players use the summer as a time for vacationing and relaxation right? Not quite. The Stingrays are already busy at work getting ready for the 2010-11 season! We sat down with Stingrays Captain Matt Scherer to find out what exactly players do during the offseason.

"I think it differs from player to player in respect to each situation and when the season ends. Obviously this postseason was a little bit of a heart breaker. We've come to believe that regardless of circumstance, our boys are going to come through. That's the confidence you have to have to be a championship club."

"When things don't work out the way you want, it tends to hurt a little more as well as catch you off guard. This offseason will be a little longer for the Rays which means you're staring down the barrel of close to a five month summer as opposed to the three month summer which comes with going the distance."

"All of our non-year-round players are already back in their hometowns a week after the last game, or up with Hershey. Some are preparing for rookie camps which sneak up usually around July, others are working with agents to try to get to the next level or find a better fit for them in their career and financially."

"Often you will take a couple of weeks to let the bumps and bruises heal, enjoy some time with family and friends, but then it's back to the drawing board. The bills don't pay themselves so many will be on the look for a new job to tide them over until October. Others will perhaps look for the "Grown Up' job to transition into life after playing. I'm sure there's plenty of golf being played and the regular trips to the gym and beach will start up again."

"The Scherers will be spending the summer in Chucktown looking for the working man's 9-5 and running hockey schools. Stay posted for updates and info on that! We'll stay busy with wedding season and hopefully a chance to head back to Washington where my family lives and/or Iowa where Mrs. Scherer's family lives. The summer will seem long, but I have no doubt that preseason will shortly feel like it's just around the corner!"

Attention Stingrays Fans! The game-used Stingrays white jersey auction will be starting online soon. Be sure to log on to StingraysHockey.com often for more information and to place your bid.

Welcome: The South Carolina Stingrays welcome Valerie Mirelman as the new Client Services Coordinator. Valerie joins the Stingrays after working at ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World. She also has experience in premium services from interning with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Valerie received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Sports Management from the University of Georgia. She is an avid sports fan and especially enjoys college football in the south. Being new to Charleston, she looks forward to learning about the city and experiencing all that it has to offer.

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ECHL Stories from April 26, 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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