Statement From Thunder Owner Brad Rowbotham on NHL Affiliate Transition

Brad Rowbotham, Owner and Chairman of SC Hockey Franchise Corporation, released the following statement with regards to the National Hockey League affiliation status of the Stockton Thunder:

“The Stockton Thunder organization was informed that the Edmonton Oilers would be changing their ECHL affiliation through a partnership with the Bakersfield Condors. Through the last seven years, the Thunder has appreciated the engaging and successful player development partnership with Oilers management, development staff and AHL affiliates and thanks the Oilers for their partnership. We are fully committed to continue providing an elite and excellent environment for player development and are exploring numerous options with potential other National Hockey League partners at this time."

"The timing of this change is exciting. The day after the announcement of our new head coach, Rich Kromm, we were contacted by another NHL team regarding the possibility of an affiliation agreement. His extensive connections and background in the NHL circle give us a tremendous advantage with our search for a new affiliate.  We're proud to provide the ideal environment that NHL teams desire: the best fans in the league, a booster club that tremendously enhances a player's experience, one of the best buildings in all of minor league hockey, and a relentless commitment to helping players reach their goals. We look forward to monitoring the interests of our fans regarding this new and thrilling direction we're heading to."