KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – There will be no Kalamazoo Wings hockey games for the 2020-2021 season.
The K-Wings have elected to sit out this season as they exercised the ECHL’s COVID-19 voluntary suspension option. They become the tenth team in the league to opt out and suspend operations for the season.
“After several months of planning, monitoring public health guidelines, and agreeing on an initial return-to-play date, this was an extremely difficult decision to make,” said K-Wings Governor and Director of Business Operations Toni Will. “Our top priority has always been the health and safety of our fans, players, coaches and staff at Wings Event Center, and we determined it was in the best interest of our hockey community to sit out this season. We will immediately start planning for the 2021-22 season.”
Most of the teams who initially opted for a January 15, 2021 start date, including the K-Wings, have since elected to sit out the season.
“Today is a difficult day for all of us in the K-Wings organization, including our players, coaches, and front office staff members” said Head Coach Nick Bootland. “With the roster we put together, we were excited about our team’s chances to compete for a Kelly Cup this season. Now we’ll focus on building for 2021-22 and can’t wait to see our great fans in the stands again when it is safe to return.”
Under the terms of the ECHL/PHPA Collective Bargaining Agreement, players from the Kalamazoo Wings are free agents for the 2020-21 season, effective immediately.
“We will be communicating directly with our valued season ticket holders and corporate partners in the coming days, and want to thank all of our wonderful fans for their support during what has been a difficult year,” said Will.
