HOUSTON


The Houston Aeros announced today the addition of Dave Tippett, Glen Irwin and Jan Popiel to the guest list on Fan Appreciation Night, this Saturday. The Aeros play the Grand Rapids Griffins (primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings) for the final regular season game at Compaq Center.



The night has developed into a tribute to the World Hockey Association, International Hockey League Aeros, The Summit and Compaq Center. Dave Barr, President and General Manager said, “It started out as a simple Fan Appreciation Night; we were going to thank our fans for their support and invite a special guest. We invited Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe and then decided to pay homage to Compaq Center for the final regular season game. I’m very glad it turned out this way.” The Aeros will begin playing in the new Downtown arena beginning next season.



Fans can expect many Houston hockey “greats” such as Bill Dineen, Jack Stanfield, Don Larway, Glen Irwin, Jan Popiel, Brian Wiseman, Mark Lamb, Dave Tippett and Mark Howe. Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe played for the Aeros with his two sons, Mark and Marty during the ‘73-‘77 seasons. Dave Tippett, who coached the Aeros during the Turner Cup year, is currently the Head Coach for the Dallas Stars.



The final game of the regular season will include a pre-game introduction of the former Aeros, a special video salute, and a banner presentation of the famous number 9 Howe wore throughout his career in the NHL and WHA. All fans are eligible for a four-day Carnival Cruise/Cruiselife to Cozumel and will also receive a limited edition Gordie Howe and Houston Hockey Greats poster.