Toledo Storm to suspend operations

Ed. Note: The Toledo Storm is the ECHL affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings.

PRINCETON, N.J. – The ECHL announced on Monday that the Board of Governors has unanimously approved a Transfer of Controlling Interest for the Toledo Storm Membership from Professional Hockey, LLC D/B/A Toledo Storm to Toledo Arena Sports, Inc.

The Board also unanimously approved the Storm’s request for Voluntary Suspension for the 2007-08 Season as the team plans to begin play in a new arena in Toledo in 2009-10.

“We are pleased and proud to welcome the Toledo Arena Sports, Inc. organization to the ECHL. While we are disappointed that professional hockey will have to take a brief hiatus in Toledo, we also realize that it is unavoidable,” said ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna. “A new state-of-the-art facility combined with the Mud Hens knowledge of the market, operational expertise and long-team commitment to Toledo will combine to keep the ECHL in Toledo for many years to come and provide fans with a first-class entertainment product.

“The ECHL would also like to thank the Toledo fans for their support over the years as well as the contribution of Tim Gladieux and Barry Soskin to hockey in Toledo.”

Toledo Mud Hens General Manager Joe Napoli said, “The Lucas County Commissioners has asked us to take the responsibility of acquiring the professional sports teams that will play in the new Lucas County Arena. After much research and due diligence, we have concluded that the ECHL is the proper fit and look forward to introducing a fan-friendly product in the Fall of 2009.”

Toledo captured the Brabham Cup, awarded to the regular season points leader, in its first season in 1991-92 and became the first team to win back-to-back league championships in 1993 and 1994.