Montreal Canadiens' senior officials flock to St. John's

The top brass with the Montreal Canadiens franchise gathered in St. John's Tuesday as part of a familiarization tour of the city and the facility that will host its minor league club for the next two seasons.

Eight senior officials with the team visited the city, led by Geoff Molson, owner, president and CEO of the storied franchise.

Molson described St. John's as the "best AHL hockey market in North America," and believes it will be a good place for players to develop.

He said performing in front of lively, sold-out crowds will better prepare players for action at the Bell Centre in Montreal, where 21,000 die-hard fans cheer on the Habs each game.

"We're looking forward to getting to know this market and hopefully bringing more to this community," Molson said during a news conference.

Molson said fans can expect a "great" team next season.

Partnership a privilege, says Williams

Tuesday's event was all part of a quickly changing pro hockey landscape in St. John's, one that's generating plenty of hype.

The Canadiens announced recently it will move its AHL franchise from Hamilton to St. John's for at least two seasons, beginning next fall.

The Winnipeg Jets' minor league team, which has played in St. John's for the past four seasons, will move to Winnipeg.

The St. John's team will continue as the IceCaps.

It all began about eight months ago whenDanny Williams, president and CEO of the St. John's IceCaps, made a call to Molson, urging him to consider St. John's if an opportunity ever arose.

About a month ago, Molson said the "stars aligned," and an agreement was quickly put into place.

Both organizations a 'class act'

Williams said it's a privilege to have formed a partnership with the Canadiens, bringing together two dedicated hockey towns.

"We bring a class act to a very very classy organization," Williams said.

As a gesture of goodwill, Williams presented Molson with a sealskin jacket.

Molson said he will make good use of it while spending time in cold arenas, watching his young sons play hockey.

Following the public event, officials from Montreal toured Mile One Centre.

"I have absolutely no doubt the team will be welcomed with open arms," said Williams.

"We have proven to be an outstanding marketplace within the AHL and we look forward to working with the Canadiens organization as we develop these young NHL prospects."