LOVELAND, Colo. - Fresh off of their fifth Central Hockey League Finals appearance in eight seasons of existence, the Colorado Eagles announced today that the organization's consistently strong performance since its inception in 2003 -- both on and off the ice -- has led to its acceptance as a member of the ECHL.

The ECHL is one of two nationwide minor pro hockey leagues (the American Hockey League being the other) recognized by the collective bargaining agreement between the National Hockey League and the NHLPA (players' association), making it a strong pipeline for NHL talent. Entering its 24th season, the ECHL is home to 20 teams in 16 different states, spanning every corner of the United States.

"We've enjoyed our time and many successes in the Central Hockey League. In fact, they're the impetus that's allowed us to be granted a spot in the ECHL," said Eagles President Chris Stewart. "The Central Hockey League has helped us form the strong foundation that is allowing us to take this next step as an organization.

"With that being said, this move is something we believe we're ready to make as an organization," continued Stewart. "We're energized by the challenges that the ECHL will present, and are confident we'll be able to continue to be successful at the higher level. As our slogan for next season states (New League, Same Tradition), this is a new league, but we'll be carrying over our same strong tradition.

"It's certainly an exciting move for our entire organization and should be an exciting move for our incredible fan base as well. This move puts us on the map nationally. Our fans can now follow us to cities like Las Vegas, Nev., Anchorage, Alaska and throughout Southern California, and we'll be employing players that will soon become some of the best in the world. That's exciting!"

Said Eagles CEO Martin Lind, "This move will only bring bigger and better things to our fans, corporate partners and the Northern Colorado community as a whole. Thanks to all of them, and the support of our ownership group, the Colorado Eagles' business model has proven to be unequivocally successful at the CHL level. We can't wait to try and match that success in the ECHL, and I have all the confidence in the world that the Northern Colorado community will continue to help us do so."

Colorado will be a part of the ECHL's eight-team Western Conference, along with the Alaska Aces, Bakersfield Condors, Idaho Steelheads, Las Vegas Wranglers, Ontario Reign, Stockton Thunder, & Utah Grizzlies.

"We are pleased to welcome the Colorado Eagles to the ECHL," said ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna. "The Eagles' strong fan support, community involvement and history of on-ice success make them an excellent addition to our Western Conference. Team ownership and management have built an exceptional brand and business organization over the past decade. We are proud to have them as the newest member of the ECHL."

The Eagles will keep their name, logo & colors, and continue playing at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, Colo. The 2011-12 ECHL season will begin in mid-October and the Eagles will play their first home game on Friday, Oct. 21. A complete schedule will be released by the league and its member teams soon.

Also new for the 2011-12 hockey season, the Eagles will soon be introducing a new ticket structure, including a $16 single-game ticket! Season ticket holder ticket prices will remain the same per-seat, per-game. Tickets for all Eagles regular season home games can continue to be purchased at www.ComcastTix.com, the BEC box office, or by calling 1-877-544-TIXX (8499) or 970-686-SHOT (7468).

An event will be scheduled later in the summer to fully introduce Eagles fans to the ECHL. Details will be posted on www.ColoradoEagles.com when finalized.

Courtesy of the Colorado Eagles.com