Submitted. The supply shortfall for the 2012/13 Abbotsford Heat AHL season is down from last year, announced Mayor Bruce Banman today.
The final number for this past year’s season is $1.66 million versus $1.76 million for the previous year. The reconciliation process between the Heat and the City typically takes place through the fall of each year.
“This year the City of Abbotsford, the Abbotsford Heat and Global Spectrum Management made a concerted effort to reduce and resolve the reconciliation for the 2012/2013 hockey season, which took a bit more time,” said City Manager, George Murray. “We looked at the numbers from a new perspective and also went through how operations can support continued improvements going forward.”
The average paid customer base in 2012/13 was 3,221, up from the 2011/2012 season of 2,653. The higher number in 2012/13 can be attributed to the increased attendance that occurred during the NHL lockout period.
“While we recognize the current figure is an improvement from last year’s results, Council remains committed to the goal of improving the financial viability of the AESC and the Abbotsford Heat,” said Banman. “The Heat provide excellent professional hockey in our community, great entertainment and an affordable sporting event option for everyone to enjoy. I look forward to seeing more and more hockey fans coming out – and bringing their friends out – to these great local games.”
The public can access information on the Abbotsford Heat’s 2013-14 schedule and tickets at www.abbotsfordheat.com.