Wolverine Lake native A.J. Jenks of the Toledo Walleye (photo by Michael Miller/MiHockey)

Red Wings, Toledo Walleye extend affiliation agreement through 2017-18

Wolverine Lake native A.J. Jenks of the Toledo Walleye (photo by Michael Miller/MiHockey)
Wolverine Lake native A.J. Jenks of the Toledo Walleye (photo by Michael Miller/MiHockey)

 

By @MichaelCaples –

The Toledo Walleye announced this morning that the ECHL club has extended its affiliate agreement with the Detroit Red Wings for the next two seasons.

Toledo has served as the Wings’ AA affiliate since its inaugural season in 2009-10.

“We’re excited about extending our affiliation with the Detroit Red Wings through the 2017-18 season,” said Toledo GM Neil Neukam in a press release. “The hockey pipeline of Detroit, Grand Rapids and Toledo continues to be one of the best in pro hockey. We look forward to the opportunity to work with the Red Wings in continuing to develop future talent while providing competitive and entertaining hockey for the ‘FINatic’ fan base in Toledo.”

Red Wings who have spent time in Toledo before moving up through the ranks include Petr Mrazek, Luke Glendening, Andrej Nestrasil, Brian Lashoff and Thomas McCollum.

“In today’s NHL, where player development is of paramount importance to both the NHL and AHL clubs, the Walleye represent everything an NHL organization looks for in an affiliate relationship– a great coaching staff, a premier facility, elite business operations, and a passionate fan base,” said Ryan Martin, assistant general manager for the Detroit Red Wings, in the release. “Toledo is an integral part of our player development model and has been a perfect fit for both the Detroit Red Wings and Grand Rapids Griffins. The Red Wings are very appreciative of the support we receive in the Toledo community, and we will continue to focus our efforts on assisting the Walleye in icing an exciting team that can compete for a championship each year.”