Throughout the history of hockey, many teams ceased to exist for different reasons, whether it may be political or budget -related. After the CHL was absorbed by the ECHL, lots of hockey teams we will share in this list were affected by this measure. Continue reading to learn more about them.
Evansville Icemen
The team was active from 2012 to 2016. After the 2015-2016 season ended, the team ceased to exist due to being relocated to another city. The Evansville Icemen moved to Jacksonville, Florida and was replaced by the Evansville Thunderbolts.
Alaska Aces
The team was active from 2003 to 2017. The Alaska Aces ended its activities due to financial problems like the Alaskan economy dropping, the high travel expenses, and the low tickets sales revenue. The team was relocated to Portland after being sold.
Ontario Reign
The team was active from 2008 to 2015. The Ontario Reign ended its existence and moved to Manchester, NH. The team was replaced by a franchise of the same name in the AHL.
Elmira Jackals
The team was active from 2007 to 2017. The Elmira Jackals ceased to exist as the team had no ownership whatsoever. The team and the arena were run by the county of Alaska, and after they decided to sell the arena, the new owner said no to the team.
Another buyer got the deal and subscribed the Elmira Enforcers in the FHL as a franchise.
Bakersfield Condors
The team was active from 2003 to 2015. The Bakersfield Condors stopped its activities after moving to Northfolk, VA, and were replaced by the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL, who are still active.
Quad City Mallards
The team was active from 2014 to 2018. The Quad City Mallards were the first team to be added to the list of teams after the ECHL absorbed the CHL and ended activities due to financial losses. The team is now being replaced by the Quad City Storm.
Manchester Monarchs
The team was active from 2015 to 2019. The Manchester Monarchs ended activities after wanting to get a new owner and failing the attempt.
Although the sport is still going strong and amassing a huge fan base, it’s a shame to know lots of teams got affected by the absorption of the CHL by the ECHL and dropped the flag.
Let’s hope no more teams will cease to exist, thus offering more chance to experience the true passion and love for the sport hockey players have for what they do.