My source is becoming insistent on an AAHL, FHL merger. I still can't get around seeing this happen although a part of me wouldn't be shocked. It has been known the AAHL wanted an East, West divisional format (with the probability of that forming next season) but with the current state of the AAHL that seemed impossible. As I mentioned in a previous article, 2 teams that were looking to join the league next year pulled out. However, as soon as we turn that page a new one begs to be written.
Now, my source says the AAHL will merge under the FHL name and thus create this two division league as stated above. How will this occur? Apparently the 4 current AAHL teams will be joined by another (possibly 2) franchises. (Louisville KY was mentioned as 1) The other division will be made up of the current FHL teams plus another 1 or 2 franchises yet to mentioned. Possibly Jamestown and Philadelphia?
The only reason I see a possibility of this happening is because my source has been dead on with EVERY piece of information sent my way. So don't be shocked if this happens; and remember you saw it on TheHockeyCraze....(just to throw that in there)
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Now onto the former member of the BC Revolution Joseph Kolodziej
He plans to try and start his own Single A league ( I am told more than likely this WILL happen). I'm just waiting on word for where the league will be located, expected teams, etc...
as soon as that comes out I'll have that up.
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The IHL and AHL
Ok, as you all should know the Flint Generals are done after this year. They only survived this year because they were fronted the money (500K from the K-Wings and some).With that being said the IHL is in a tough spot.
Not to fear though because there are potentially 2 teams waiting in the wings to enter the IHL next season. It has also been known the Rockford Ice Hogs of the AHL, are struggling and will not survive in their current state, so they may look to rejoin the IHL after jumping up the "A" a couple years ago.
The Peoria Rivermen are also apparently in a tight spot and may look to join the "I" as well. Although John Davidson President of the St. Louis Blues strongly denies this.
Finally a 3rd team as an expansion may join the pack. I would say the Evansville Ice Men (as it's been said all year) but if the above league merger happens, than the Ice Men will be a critical cornerstone to the vitality of the FHL.
If the IHL does not keep a 7 team league, you may see the Quad City Mallards leave.
I received 2 more questions for this week's Craze Mailbag so stay tuned for that later this week!
Have you heard anything about the AHL or IHL moving to Louisville, KY?
ReplyDeleteThe AHL once had the Louisville Panthers existed from 99-01; so I'm not sure that would happen.
ReplyDeleteThe IHL could be a possibility, I would say it all depends on how the AAHL / FHL stuff works out. I honestly don't have the gut feeling this merger will happen but I've been suprised before. If that doesn't happen, Louisville could end up in the "I" next year. Or not at all
I'll try and find anymore info on that
OK, the Carolina Hurricanes will be moving the Albany franchise to Charlotte (need to find about the ECHL Checkers). Not sure who will replace Albany's vacancy
ReplyDeleteEdmonton is moving their affiliate from Springfield to Oklahoma City. Springfield will be replaced. The AHL will not be leaving there.
I rule out Louisville in the AHL
Waiting to hear from the front office of the IHL
I was a goal judge for the Panthers when they were here in Louisville. The problem then was the buliding, Freedom Hall, and getting dates. We have a new Arena opening this fall will free up alot of space and time.
ReplyDelete