The Mississippi RiverKings announced today that the hockey team will operate as a member of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) during the 2011-2012 season, which begins in October.
“Our goal has always been to build a winning hockey team in a manner that produces positive impacts in our community over and above the entertainment value to area hockey fans,” said Lanier Hurdle, a board member. “This change will let us build relationships with teams closer to northwest Mississippi, and build interest in hockey in the region.”
The RiverKings join SPHL teams in Augusta and Columbus, GA, Fayetteville, NC, Huntsville, AL, Knoxville, TN, Lafayette, LA, Biloxi, MS and Pensacola, FL. “The SPHL is a better regional fit for the RiverKings,” said Ab Mattice, General Manager/Governor for the team. “It will create rivalries with teams within driving distance of DeSoto County. We ask our loyal fans to continue to support the RiverKings here at the DeSoto Civic Center and on the road.”
