Quote:
Originally Posted by PeteMoss
If they are hellbent on being in Canada and St.John's is considered too far away, one market not served by any major junior teams is Fredericton. I know UNB gets decent crowds out there, but I'm not sure if the arena is up to AHL standards.
You could also look at Cornwall, Ontario. They used to have the Avs farm team, I believe Hartley actually coached there.
|
Fredericton is a UNB city.
The AHL was there and it didn't work (also it's a REALLY small market).
The AHL is dead in the Maritimes. Going from an entire division (plus St. John's) to nothing at all.
I don't believe the Canadians, or Senators really took off with a lot of support. The Oilers and then Citadels weren't supported in Halifax. The way the Oilers left Cape Breton left a very sour taste in the mouths of people here (the team itself is looked back on with nostalgia). The Wildcats seem to have taken a hold of Moncton. Saint John I can't comment on but keep in mind Saint John is owned by the McCains, Moncton is owned by the Irving's, those teams aren't going anywhere. Halifax has no desire for the AHL, and when the Mooseheads are winning they are #1 by a long shot. Mind you, when they were are losing the Rainmen were drawing about the same attendance (slightly less).
If you're looking at Atlantic Canada, St. John's is the only option. The only city that wants and supports the AHL. Junior hockey didn't work there.
If Calgary is looking for a stop gap it could work on the Rock. Plus their team president is Danny Williams, he's adored in Alberta!