New hockey team set to be announced for the city of Toronto
It's only been one season since the Hamilton Bulldogs moved to Brantford due to renovations, but the FirstOntario Centre might soon host a new AHL team.
Hamilton has a rich hockey history, producing stars like Syl Apps, Dave Andreychuk, Ken Dryden, and Arber Xhekaj. The Hamilton Bulldogs were a key part of this legacy playing in the AHL as the Edmonton Oilers affiliate from 1996 to 2015. Even though the Bulldogs are now a junior team in Brantford Hamilton still has a strong & loyal hockey fanbase.
Excitingly the City of Hamilton is reportedly in talks to bring back an AHL franchise. Many thought professional hockey was gone for good so this news has been a pleasant surprise for local fans.
FirstOntario Centre, formerly known as Copps Coliseum, has hosted many iconic events, including the 1987 Canada Cup where Wayne Gretzky set up Mario Lemieux for a legendary goal. It also holds the OHL single game attendance record with 17383 fans attending the 1990 finals. The arena is located in a prime downtown spot right behind Jackson Square Mall making it convenient for fans & players alike. With its rich history & great location FirstOntario Centre is perfect for bringing back high level hockey to Hamilton.
For a city with a passionate sports culture an AHL team would be a welcome return. Hamilton deserves to be rewarded for its hockey devotion & while the NHL might be out of reach an AHL team is the next best thing.
