IHA

[spunkingguppy]

I wanted to know what is going on with the IHA. I have read a great deal on these forums and see by their website that they have 3 teams signed on. Is anything happening this year? When and Where??? Is there a schedule?

Just would like to keep up on what's going on. Thanks.

[sactosaxons]

Same thing I was wondering just last night. Yes, three teams are on board but beyond that.....I know they're scheduled to begin play this summer but when, where, etc? That's the big question. Benny??? Thanks-

[Benny_Gulakiw]

For those who know me, I will not post information that I don't feel confident is as accurate as possible. I would rather not post speculation and than have to make numerous corrections.

Admitedly, starting a new league has been challenging, to say the least. As I mentioned before, this season is being billed as the Inaugural Showcase Season, meaning it's a bare-bones league where we can get all the bugs out, and believe me, ask anyone who's involved in running a league, there are bugs. I don't want to hear from anybody saying, "Hey, look how late they're releasing their schedule," or "How come only four team?" This league is being created to be around for the long-term. I'd rather do whatever it takes to get it right at the beginning.

I have received a tremendous response from teams from all over the country wanting to know more about IHA and how to get into the league. A couple of teams were seriously considering playing this summer, but because of a variety of reasons, they chose to sit out until 2004. The four teams that will be playing in the 2003 Showcase Season are four excellent franchises. They have all worked very hard under some challenging circumstances. I consider them to be pioneers in helping create a new and long-lasting league here in the Great Lakes area.

It's funny that you posted your question today. I've been waiting for someone to ask about IHA. Well, just today, I have been able to finalize the Showcase Season schedule. We have had a fourth team signed-up for some time now, but again, I've been waiting for them to select their name before I announce them. Also, there was a little wrinkle with the Pittsburgh team and it has taken some time to work that out.

I refuse to make any grandiose statements about my league. This is a start-up league and a start-up season. We'll see what works and what doesn't, make the necessary corrections and immediately following the conclusion of the 2003 season, we will begin working on 2004.

If anyone has any specific questions, feel free to post them here or e-mail me directly at [email protected] I plan on sending out a press release, which I'm sure Rich will post, probably by the end of the weekend and that will hopefully answer many more questions.

Thanks for your interest.

Benny Gulakiw
President
Inline Hockey America

[sactosaxons]

Thanks Benny!

I for one appreciate the posting of accurate information only. And you'll get only support from me on the "challenges" you face starting or even running a league. Although the Great Lakes area is a bit of a trip for me to make to see games, I'm interested in following the league's progress and am pleased to hear you've received a tremendous response. I'll watch for future updates here and on IHA's website. I wish you the best of luck!

Joy Raftery
MLRH Sacramento Saxons

[spunkingguppy]

Benny,

I too thank you for wishing to convey "accurate" info only. I think it is pretty evident that there is a lot of "misguided" info out there and it makes it very difficult to actually get a sense of what actually is going on in this sport.

I look forward to hearing or reading any future announcement concerning the IHA and following it's progress. Best of Luck to all involved in the inaugural season.

SG