San Jose Sharks New ECHL Affiliate: The Allen Americans

It was announced today that the San Jose Sharks have joined forces with the Allen Americans as the teams new ECHL affiliate.

After the San Francisco Bulls folded earlier in the year, the Sharks haven’t had any affiliation with the ECHL. Of course the Worcester Sharks will still be the franchises AHL affiliate.

"“We are very excited to add the Allen Americans as our ECHL affiliate for the upcoming season,” said Worcester Sharks general manager Joe Will. “Evidenced by winning back-to-back championships in the Central Hockey League, Head Coach and General Manager Steve Martinson and his staff do an excellent job creating a successful environment and developing hockey players.”"

The Allen Americans used to play for the Central Hockey League, until all seven teams in the league switched over to the ECHL.

I know a lot of Allen Americans fans and it will be great to have an association with them. Not only to once again have a relationship with the ECHL, but also to increase a potential fan base.

Not to mention the amazing talent on the Allen Americans roster. Head coach and general manager Steve Martinson says it best here:

"“We are very excited to be working with two first class organizations in the San Jose Sharks and Worcester Sharks. Our first assigned player was the CHL 12-13 most outstanding goaltender and the man who backstopped the Americans to our organizations first championship in Aaron Dell. We take pride in our track record of developing great young players and our affiliation is off to a great start.”"

You couldn’t ask for anything more in an affiliate team.