For Immediate Release: 3/11/2011 1:20 pm
Worcester, MA (March 10, 2011) - Worcester Sharks CEO Michael T. Lehr, DCU Center General Manager Sandra L. Dunn, and City Manager Michael V. O'Brien, announced today that Silicon Valley Sports and Entertainment (SVS&E) has exercised its option to extend its license agreement with SMG and the City of Worcester for two years. The original contract, signed in 2006, was a 10-year deal structured as a 5+2+3 (5-year lease with an option to extend for two years to 2013 and again for an additional three years to 2016).
"We are thrilled to continue a tradition of great hockey and a fan experience like none other," said City Manager Michael O'Brien. "The Sharks' extension speaks to our continued progress and to a confidence in our community shared by so many. We continue to invest in our first-class, state-of-the-art arena for the team and our patrons, in concert with the revitalization of our Downtown, with the construction and expansion of CitySquare, Gateway Park, the Massachusetts College Pharmacy and Health Sciences and numerous other private re-investments underway."
City Manager Michael O'Brien assembled a group of local business leaders, the Power Players, prior to the start of the current season to rally a renewed commitment from fans and supporters throughout Greater Worcester. These individuals succeeded in obtaining commitments for new season ticket holders, flex voucher customers as well as corporate sponsorships.
"As promised, the Sharks have brought momentous hockey, family fun and an overall great fan experience to the DCU Center. The quality of the product both on and off the ice is tremendous," said Sandy L. Dunn, General Manager of the DCU Center. The Worcester Sharks are an engaged partner in the business community and they've actively worked with local charities including the establishment of their own programs like Reading Is Cool and Sharks Charities. As a local business, they've significantly contributed to improving the local economy."
As one of 30 AHL franchises, Worcester joins an elite group of cities on an international sports stage. Over 35 players have catapulted from Worcester directly to the NHL. To date, attendance is up 26% and ticket revenue is up 28% over last season. Season ticket renewals for the 2011-12 Season are now underway.
"When the Sharks were looking for a new home, one of the biggest criteria was that we would be in a true partnership with the City and the Building. The commitment by Michael O'Brien, Sandy Dunn and so many business leaders continues to make this Sharks Territory. I personally appreciate the support and willingness of these partners to work with the team and allow us to extend our partnership", said Michael T. Lehr, CEO of the Worcester Sharks.
