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October 4, 2009
For immediate release
(OTTAWA) - The National Hockey League Fans' Association (NHLFA) announced today its advocacy priorities for the 2009-10 season on behalf of its 30,000+ members.
The NHLFA recently surveyed its membership, which consists of approximately 60% US-based fans and 40% Canadian fans, and determined that unique priorities exist based on nationality.
"Our American fans want better access and better quality television coverage of NHL hockey," stated Jim Boone, co-founder of the organization. "The NHL is alienating fans with its limited TV exposure in the US and fans are really frustrated. They are walking away from the game."
Fans in Canada enjoy a plethora of quality NHL hockey coverage on television and do not share the same broadcasting concern as their American counterparts. The consensus in Canada is that Gary Bettman must be replaced as commissioner of the league after 16 years as its leader.
"Our Canadian fans feel this man has done more harm than good to the game. They feel Mr. Bettman is not in touch with the sport's grassroots - in Canada - and the time has come to find a new and more informed leader," Boone noted.
The NHLFA will focus on these two issues as its priorities for the upcoming season and do its best to lobby the key decision makers who can help improve the NHL for fans.
The NHLFA was launched in 1998, to give NHL fans a way to express their views on the game and to influence it for the better. There is no charge for membership and to date more than 30,000 fans have registered via the Association's Web site, www.nhlfa.com. The NHLFA is not affiliated with the National Hockey League.
For further information please contact:
Jim Boone
boone@nhlfa.com
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