CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Checkers announced today the team received the award for “Excellence in Marketing” for the American Conference at the ECHL league meetings held in Las Vegas earlier this week.

The Checkers highlighted their marketing campaign this season with their Pink in the Rink event, Salute to Heroes Night, Race Night and several community events.

“We are very proud to be recognized by the league for our marketing efforts over the last year,” said Jeff Longo, president of the Checkers.  “Through the efforts of our entire staff, and the support of our great corporate and charitable partners, we were able to present a number of great theme nights and community events.” 

Longo adds this latest award to his list of league recognitions.  Prior to joining the Checkers, Longo worked with the San Diego Gulls where during his tenure the team led the league in attendance each year and was named Organization of the Year in 2000 and 2003 – the 2003 was Longo’s first as president (the Gulls were a member of the WCHL from 1995 – 2003). 

In just her first season with the team, Tera Black led the Checkers’ marketing campaign and efforts and also adds this recognition to her list of ECHL awards.  Black led the San Diego Gulls to the ECHL’s marketing and media relations awards during the 2005-06 season. 

“The award truly characterizes the season-long efforts of our entire staff,” said Black, vice president of the Checkers.  “This award also is a testament to what Michael Kahn has been able to do in just his first year of ownership.  We look forward to expanding our efforts in the seasons to come.”

The Checkers will begin their 15th season of play in the ECHL with two home games on opening weekend.  The Checkers will host the Columbia Inferno on Friday, Oct. 19 and the Texas Wildcatters on Saturday, Oct. 20.  In the team’s 14-year history, the Checkers have made the playoffs 10 times including three-consecutive playoff appearances to date.  The Checkers will enter their third season of play at St. Lawrence Homes Home Ice at Charlotte Bobcats Arena this fall.  Season tickets are on sale now with full-season packages starting at just $399.  The Checkers are accepting deposits on all ticket packages.  For season ticket information, please call 704-342-4-ICE.