The Newfoundland Growlers, proud members of the ECHL, are excited to announce the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League and Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League as their NHL and AHL affiliates.
“We are thrilled to announce our affiliation with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Marlies,” stated Dean MacDonald, Chairman of Deacon Sports & Entertainment. “The Toronto Maple Leafs have a rich and storied past and the Growlers are excited to be a part of their future. We want to thank the Maple Leafs for their belief in our organization and we look forward to working with them as we bring ECHL hockey to the wonderful fans of our province.”
The announcement marks the second occurrence that Newfoundland & Labrador will serve as a proving ground for Maple Leaf prospects as the NHL club previously held a 14-year affiliation with the St. John’s Maple Leafs of the American Hockey League from 1991 until 2005. After the 2005-06 season the American Hockey League franchise moved to Toronto and became known as the Marlies and currently play out of the Ricoh Coliseum where they are facing off against the Texas Stars in the 2018 Calder Cup final.
“We are excited to begin our relationship with the Newfoundland Growlers as our newest ECHL affiliate,” said Kyle Dubas, General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs. “This is an important investment for our hockey club as we remain committed to giving our players the best resources possible to ensure their development and professional success. To now have our ECHL affiliate in St. John’s, Newfoundland, a town and
province which as historically meant a lot to the Maple Leafs, is a truly special opportunity.”
The Growlers will compete in the North Division of the Eastern Conference of the 27- team league in their inaugural season. The Toronto Maple Leafs and its parent company, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, will be responsible for the filling the Growlers’ vacancies on the coaching staff, medical staff and equipment staff.
The Growlers inaugural season will begin on Friday, October 12, when they play host to the Florida Everblades at Mile One Centre. Season tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Mile One Centre box office in person, by phone at 709-576-7657 or online at mileonecentre.com. Growlers Season Ticket holders receive first access to any Growlers exhibition game tickets and any other affiliated events that are yet to be announced.
Exclusive Newfoundland Growlers merchandise is now available and can be purchased at the Growlers Kiosk located at the Avalon Mall.
*Press Release Courtesy of the Newfoundland Growlers organization