Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, March 22, 1995 TAG: 9503220092
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-1 EDITION: STATE
SOURCE: FROM ASSOCIATED PRESS AND STAFF REPORTS
DATELINE: CHARLOTTE, N.C. LENGTH: Short
ECHL owners met Monday in Charlotte, with the most contentious issue being the possible defection of several ECHL clubs to the American Hockey League, which is one of the National Hockey League's top minor leagues.
But late Tuesday, Charlotte team officials said they will not jump leagues.
``We listened to our fans and realized there are a lot of advantages to this league, such as all the regional rivalries, and we feel that with our current business plan we can help the ECHL grow into a first-class minor league,'' Checkers president Carl Scheer said in a statement released by the league.
ECHL commissioner Pat Kelly greeted the decision with satisfaction.
``The ECHL is thrilled that Charlotte will still be part of us,'' he said. ``We were thrilled when we got them, and we are thrilled they will be with us next season as we grow into a 22-team league.''
Executives from the Richmond Renegades and Raleigh IceCaps confirmed they will remain in the league, as well.
It's still not clear if the Greensboro Monarchs will remain in the ECHL or join the AHL. Hampton Roads has inquired about joining the AHL, but has made no official application.
by CNB