Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, May 16, 1993 TAG: 9305160008
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: E10 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
It is apparent to me that not only do all of the loyal hockey fans in the valley believe in the efforts of John Gagnon and Pierre Paiement, so do the Civic Center Commission and [sportswriter] Randy King. While much has already been done, everyone needs to show our support for the investors.
For hockey to succeed in Roanoke, we all know that it will take a lot of work. For the first time in many years, I am optimistic that John, Pierre and the rest of the investors, have the ingredients for success. When Pierre played hockey here, it was a very popular team and I can remember 8,000 people attending games. There is absolutely no reason why this can't happen again. The East Coast Hockey League is well-respected and is financially sound.
I know that Roanoke has a reputation of not supporting teams, but I think the citizens can and will turn it around. We can show the sporting world we are a first-class city and that we will support these young men on our new team, some of whom may be future NHL stars.
Come on Roanoke, let's get behind the investors and show the other cities who comprise the ECHL that Roanoke is a winner both on and off the ice.
MAGGIE DREWRY\ ROANOKE
by CNB