PORT HURON, Mich. - The Port Huron Icehawks of the International Hockey League announced today they will discontinue operations after three seasons.

A press release from the IceHawks front office confirmed what many in the area suspected.

“We wish to thank the loyal fans, sponsors, and season ticket holders for their support these past three years," the release began. "The team will not be playing anywhere else. It was a difficult decision for the ownership and management of the team and its staff at Kinney Entertainment.”

The announcement was made shortly after the IHL made it known that the Flint Generals would not take the ice in the 2010-11 season after failing to acquire a new lease at the Perani Arena. The future of the Generals organization has yet to be determined.

Chief Financial Officer and Governor for Kinney Entertainment, Frank Kinney, shared the following statement:

“We are grateful to the community at large for allowing us to field our team on their behalf. This was certainly an exciting time for our organization, as we committed significant human, technological and financial resources to support hockey in Port Huron. There isn’t a more passionate, supportive group of folks in minor league sports that could have aided us better as we entered into this venture three years ago. It is a tough day for us and still we look forward and wish the community and its hockey fans all the best.”

Lifetime St. Clair County resident and Vice President-Business Manager of Kinney Entertainment, Dave Goetze added his two cents. 

“We were blessed to be part of this community for the past three years. The reality is, we live in a challenged economy in our community and the entertainment dollars were not there to sustain a professional hockey team long term. I personally want to thank the Kinneys, our coaching staff, players, my front office staff, and the fans for your support. It’s a very tough day for all of us. We value and thank you for the many positive relationships we have formed here, and encourage you to participate as much as you can in the many community events at McMorran.”

“We were very lucky to have such a fine, hard working, loyal, and trustworthy team of people to work with in the front office," team owner Larry Kinney added. "Every new adventure brings with it the excitement of the unknown. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity and appreciate the relationships that we were able to build during this time. From the great team we have assembled to our sponsors and season ticket holders to our trusted vendors, booster club and City officials, thank you to everyone in Port Huron.”

The team stated that it would contact all season ticket holders who had opted to continue their contracts into next season to provide for refunds.

The announcement comes just two weeks after the International and Central Hockey Leagues announced intentions to integrate. Last Friday, a press release was issued noting the 17 teams that would participate in the 2010-11 season.

Despite success on the ice, the Icehawks failed to fill seats, averaging just 1,476 sold per season over the past three years. Continued economic difficulties in the region combined with anticipated travel costs in the coming year can be seen as contributing to the decision to fold.

Contact the author at Lou.Lafrado@prohockeynews.com