Hockey Rumors Rocking Dayton

By Bruce Kettelle

With the cancellation of next year’s ECHL Dayton Bombers season it seems the scramble to keep hockey in Dayton is rising to a new fervor. ECHL, IHL and now even USHL teams have crossed the blue line and are racing for the net.

The Bombers’ owner leads the pack with fundraising efforts underway to save the financially beleaguered franchise. Recent efforts to sell advance season tickets and lure new investors continue but a June 25th deadline is closing in.

Owner Costa Papista needs to notify the ECHL League by that date of his plans to put the Bombers on the ice in 2010. Missing the deadline threatens his rights to continue the Bombers franchise agreement. So far little news has been leaked about the success of his efforts.

The IHL has met with officials from Trotwood’s HARA Arena about locating a new franchise there for either the 2009 or 2010 season. An investor group has expressed interest but no agreements have been reached. With each passing day a 2009 start seems more remote.

Today it was learned that the USHL has entered the fray. Confidential sources said they are looking at both Hara and the Hobart Arena in Troy. The USHL is a 12-team junior hockey league. This month they are close to adding a 13th team to play in Youngstown Ohio.

With the arrival of USHL interest, hockey fans are bound to have a spirited debate over the qualities of the three leagues.

But one thing is definitely for sure. With many of their team members already signing contracts with teams in other cities, the Bombers will not be playing in Dayton this fall.

Lets us know what you think in our comments section.