Local Federal Hockey team the 1000 Islands Privateers made some big announcements Thursday afternoon regarding team line-up, upcoming games and the fate of their location for the 2012-13 season.
Earlier in the week, the 1000 Islands Privateers made the announcement that a 10th Mountain Division soldier would be joining the team for a special game.
Today, at a press conference held at Bonnie Castle Resort, the home of the Privateers, owner Nicole Kirnan introduced the Fort Drum soldier. Though because of regulations his full name and rank was not announced, Shawn will play in Friday night’s game versus the Delaware Federals.
Shawn, a hockey player with the Fort Drum Mountaineers, admits he is not a pro player, but says he is excited to join the team. He has been getting in practices with the full team over the last week. A contract with the team was signed during the conference.
A week ago, Shawn contacted the 1000 Islands Privateers expressing his interest to play with the team. Kirnan said she was excited to bring Shawn into the mix and that she feels this is another great partnership with the community. In October, he had the opportunity to play against the Privateers with the Mountaineers.
Kirnan also discussed the fate of the home of the 1000 Islands Privateers for the upcoming season. Earlier this year, management of Bonnie Castle Resorts faced closing the facility, leaving the building and teams fate up in the air. An agreement was reached where the 1000 Islands Privateers assumed the managerial responsibly for the facility until the end of the season.
At the press conference Kirnan stated, “The Privateers are committed to remaining in the 1000 Islands region for the 2012-13 season. Effective immediately, the organization will begin a diligent process to weigh all venue options throughout the 1000 Islands region.”
She elaborated that the team is looking for facilities in Clayton, Watertown, Ogdensburg and possibly Massena.
With all the changes the Privateers have faced, they also announced new captain’s positions. Paul Kelly will now take the roll of Team Captain and Brad Smulders and Adam McAllister will assume responsibility as Assistant Captains.
For more information, and to hear from players and President Nicole Kirnan, watch the complete video story.
