STATEMENT FROM HOWARD BALDWIN, SR.
Hartford, CT, June 26, 2012 – Howard Baldwin, Sr. confirms that he and the New York Rangers have agreed to end their existing marketing agreement for the AHL Connecticut Whale at this time and transition operational responsibilities back to MSG.
Baldwin’s partnership, Hartford Hockey Club LLC, re-invigorated the local hockey market in 2010, rebranding the Rangers’ affiliate as the Connecticut Whale and restoring Whalers pride in the community.
Over the past two seasons, corporate sponsorships more than doubled, a robust broadcast schedule was introduced, and the Whale’s Community Relations program sponsored more than 1200 appearances.
Unfortunately, high operational costs and fixed expenses proved a heavy burden.
Mr. Baldwin has applauded State and City efforts to refinance and reposition the XL Center as a hockey venue and continues to believe that Hartford deserves a return of major league hockey. He looks forward to the opportunity in the coming year to address the restructuring of the marketplace and the continued re-energizing of Hartford as a great hockey market.
“This has always been about promoting activity and economic opportunity in the city,” said Baldwin. “We have shown what’s possible with the tremendous fans in this market. That hasn’t changed.”
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