Wayne Gretzky to lead Utah Grizzlies - American Hockey League [AHL] - On MLN Sports Zone

Gretzky to Lead Grizzlies Hockey
Utah Grizzlies and Phoenix Coyotes announce new development affiliation.

05.01.04 – If they’re lucky, perhaps some greatness will rub off.

The Utah Grizzlies of the American Hockey League (AHL) have signed a two-year affiliation agreement with the National Hockey League's (NHL) Phoenix Coyotes.

The deal will include the 2004-05, 2005-06 seasons, and an option for the 2006-07 season.

“We are extremely excited about working with an organization as dynamic and exciting as the Phoenix Coyotes,” said Dave Oldham, president of the Utah Grizzlies. “This affiliation change signals a whole new era for Grizzlies hockey, and will also bring some extremely positive changes to the team."

The Coyotes organization, led by managing partner Wayne Gretzky along with general manager Michael Barnett and assistant general manager Laurence Gilman, will provide the Grizzlies with players and coaches and will make all hockey related decisions.

“We are very pleased to announce our affiliation with the Utah Grizzlies,” said Gretzky. “Salt Lake City and the state of Utah have a rich tradition of hockey and a tremendous fan base. We look forward to a great partnership.”

Gretzky has already established strong hockey roots in Salt Lake City by assembling Canada’s national hockey team for the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Team Canada won the gold medal and the nine-time Hart Trophy winner (given to the NHL's Most Valuable Player) was given the Olympic Order, which is the highest honor bestowed by the International Olympic Committee, for his “outstanding contributions to the game of hockey.”

“We are extremely happy to be entering into this new era in Utah Grizzlies hockey with an organization that is committed to success on the ice,” said Grizzlies Executive Vice President Jerry McBurney. “The Phoenix Coyotes personify professionalism and have one of the top front office staffs in the NHL. We look forward to working with Mr. Gretzky, Mr. Barnett and Mr. Gilman to help develop tomorrow's Phoenix Coyotes and to providing Utah with a team they can be proud of.”

In addition the Grizzlies will be unveiling new uniforms, announcing the signing of players and introducing a new coaching staff during the off-season.

“After nine great years in Utah, we are confident that our new affiliation and enhancements to the team will take the Grizzlies to even greater heights and popularity,” said Grizzlies Co-Owner David Elmore.