May 3, 2016

SOLAR BEARS PRESIDENT/CEO SIEGEL STEPS DOWN

Chairman Joe Haleski to Assume Day-to-Day Operations

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears, proud affiliate of the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL’s Toronto Marlies, announced today that Jason Siegel will step down as President/CEO effective immediately in order to pursue other interests. The organization’s Chairman and majority owner, Joe Haleski, will manage the day-to-day operations of the franchise and assume the responsibilities of CEO.

“We have a tremendous front office staff and coaching staff and we expect big things from them for next season and in many seasons to come,” Siegel said. “We were disappointed that we didn’t make the playoffs last season and disappointed that we didn’t reach our potential but confident that the pieces are in place to make a strong championship playoff run this upcoming season. Joe and I will continue to work on future projects together; most notably we will continue to chair the upcoming 2016 Greater Orlando Heart Walk in September.”

“Jason and I have been friends for 30 years,” Haleski said. “He will continue to retain a minority interest in the team. I look forward to working with the organization that Jason has led over the past four seasons.”

The Solar Bears drop the puck on their fifth season of ECHL hockey on Saturday, Oct. 22 against the Florida Everblades at the Amway Center. On-sale dates for the purchase of single-game tickets will be announced later this summer. Full and half-season ticket plans are now available by visiting OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com.

The Orlando Solar Bears, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs and AHL's Toronto Marlies, play all of their home games at the Amway Center, the 2012 Street and Smith's Sports Business Journal Sports Facility of the Year.

Follow the Solar Bears at www.OrlandoSolarBearsHockey.com, Facebook, and Twitter (@OrlandoHockey) for all the latest news and updates. Stay in touch with Shades on Instagram by following ShadestheSolarBear.

Group tickets are a great way to entertain employees, co-workers, clients, friends and family. For more information on discounted group tickets and a list of group benefits, call 407-951-8200 or visit www.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/groups.

Officially licensed Orlando Solar Bears replica team jerseys, apparel, and headwear can be purchased online at: http://store.orlandosolarbearshockey.com/.

To read the Solar Bears Report to the Community, click here.