Expansion: Niagara Whalers Join GMHL

The Niagara Whalers have been granted a franchise in the Greater Metro Junior A Hockey League (GMHL) beginning in the 2014-15 season.

With the addition of the Whalers, the GMHL will run with 24 hockey clubs for the 2014-15 season. League management selected the Whalers' application for expansion in large part to the dedicated player infrastructure and proven hockey operators leading the organization.

The Niagara Whalers have existed as an elite showcase organization, dominating Southern Ontario Bantam and Midget tournaments. In the past two spring and summer showcase seasons, the Whalers have be crowned champions in nine of eleven tournaments. The prestigious showcase hockey club will remain to serve as a prospects team to the Junior A level.

Steve Quinn will head the franchise through the first season at the Junior level. Steve has been the face of the Whalers for years, building the club into the successful organization you see today.

Joining Quinn will be Head Coach & General Manager Andrew Joyner. Joyner has spent eight seasons coaching at the Jr. B and Jr. C levels, and most recently with the Southern Admirals AAA organization. Bryan Elliott will be the club's Vice President. Elliott has over 30 years of coaching and managing experience at the professional (Central Hockey League), Canadian university, European junior, major junior and junior levels.

The Whalers official website is www.niagarawhalershockey.com where you can find more information.

The GMHL is very proud and excited to have both Quinn and the Whalers apart of the league.