Colorado Eagles, Tampa Bay Lightning Announce Affiliation
More Details to Come on Sept. 23 when Lightning Take on Phoenix Coyotes in Loveland

WINDSOR, Colo. - The Governors' Cup champion Colorado Eagles of the Central Hockey League and the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League announced an affiliation agreement today between the two organizations. More specific details of the agreement and the relationship between the teams will be announced on Wednesday, September 23 in a pre-game ceremony before the Lightning face-off against the Phoenix Coyotes in a preseason game at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, Colo.


“I believe that this affiliation will form one of the strongest bonds ever established between an NHL and a 'AA' professional hockey franchise,” said Chris Stewart, President and General Manager of the Eagles. “We look forward to a bright future with the Lightning and to helping them develop some of the best young talent in the hockey world.

"Both organizations have a common goal -- to win championships -- and both clubs have given themselves a better chance of accomplishing that with this agreement.  I want to personally thank Brian Lawton and the Tampa Bay ownership group for their support of our organization and the additional credibility that this affiliation brings to our franchise, our fans and all of Northern Colorado."

Vincent Lecavalier, Steven Stamkos, Martin St. Louis and the Lightning are meeting the Wayne Gretzky-coached Coyotes at 7:05 p.m. on September 23 as the Eagles host the second NHL preseason game in the Budweiser Events Center's history. Coach Rick Tocchet’s Lightning also feature Swedish superstar Victor Hedman, who was drafted second overall in this summer’s NHL Draft. The game promises to be a familiar battle as the two teams play the night before in Everett, Wash. 

“We look forward to bringing NHL hockey to Loveland next month and we appreciate the Eagles and their fans for their willingness to host the Lightning and the Coyotes as we prepare for our respective seasons,” said Brian Lawton, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Lightning. “With respect to the affiliation agreement, I can say that we look to align ourselves with first class, winning organizations and we see nothing but that with Colorado. We look forward to developing an ongoing relationship with the Eagles."