The Central Hockey League (CHL) announced today that the Laredo Bucks have notified the league that they will not operate during the 2012-13 season.  The Bucks ownership will maintain their license agreement in the league.

“The decision to cease operations was extremely difficult for the ownership group,” stated minority owner Glenn Hart.  “This is one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make.  We made every effort to avoid this outcome, but in our current position we thought this was the proper decision. We would like to thank the loyal support of our Corporate Partners and Season Ticket Holders over the past 10 years.”

“It is a sad day for fans of the CHL and specifically Bucks fans,” said Duane Lewis, CHL Commissioner.  “There is tremendous history for the Bucks and for the last decade, they helped the sports world take notice of South Texas hockey.  We sincerely appreciate all of their efforts over the last 10 seasons, and we will miss seeing hockey in Laredo next season.”

The Bucks just completed their 10th season in the CHL and have had success with an all-time record of 368-213-59.  Laredo played in four consecutive CHL Finals (2004-2007) winning the Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup in 2004 and 2006. 

All Laredo players have been declared unrestricted free agents within the CHL.