Chicago Blackhawks Name New ECHL Affiliate

The Chicago Blackhawks have announced that the Fresno Falcons will be their new ECHL affiliate, replacing the Pensacola Ice Pilots. From Chicago Blackhawks.com : The Falcons have played in the ECHL since 2003 under an NHL affiliation agreement with the San Jose Sharks, compiling a .565 regular-season winning percentage (181-134-45), while reaching the postseason each of the last three years "We are very excited about affiliating with the Fresno Falcons for the upcoming 2008-09 season," said Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliates Mark Bernard. "We are happy to have head coach Matt Thomas working with the young Chicago Blackhawks prospects and we know that he'll do a terrific job in helping along their development." This will allow us west coast Blackhawks fans to see Blackhawks prospects and cheer for their beloved team without actually having to be in an NHL city. I myself reside in Salt Lake City, Utah, so I will be able to go see the Utah Grizzlies play Fresno.  ... (link)