From: Robert Desimone, Communications Manager
(713) 361-7920
Palmer Hestley, Asst. Communications Manager
(713) 361-7930
October 7, 2009

HOUSTON AEROS, SAN ANTONIO RAMPAGE, TEXAS STARS TO COMPETE IN INAUGURAL “LONE STAR FACEOFF”

HOUSTON – The Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League (AHL), in conjunction with the AHL’s San Antonio Rampage and Texas Stars, announced today they will compete this season in an inaugural intrastate rivalry to be called the “Lone Star Faceoff”.

“The Houston Aeros are excited to be a part of this new and exciting event,” Aeros Executive VP of Business Operations Jamie Spencer said. “We play quite a few games within the state of Texas and having a little something to play for is a great incentive for both the fans and the players.”

The decision to form the competition was a joint effort between the three Texas teams in order to create excitement for the sport of hockey throughout the state. Each team submitted one entry to be ultimately voted upon by the fans via their respective websites and “Lone Star Faceoff” was ultimately chosen. The “Lone Star Faceoff” will go to the team that records the most points within the rivalry. The second and third place teams will make a donation to a charity chosen by the winning team. Each team will play the other two Texas teams 12 times throughout the season (6 home, 6 road). The official trophy for the “Lone Star Faceoff” will be revealed later in the season.

“The addition of the Stars presents a tremendous opportunity to continue to grow the game of hockey in Texas,” said Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Spurs Sports and Entertainment Frank Miceli. “We look forward to a spirited rivalry between all three teams.”

“The Texas Stars are thrilled to be a part of the Lone Star Faceoff,” said Brian Spieles, Texas’ Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We know this will only intensify what should already be a great rivalry between the three Texas teams. At the same time, this event will bring great exposure to hockey in the state.”

The Aeros return to Toyota Center for their home opener Friday, October 9, to face the Texas Stars at 7:35 PM. The first 3,000 fans will receive an Aeros rally towel. For more information on season and group tickets, along with 10-game voucher plans, visit aeros.com or call 713-974-PUCK (7825).



-- HOUSTON AEROS --

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