THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, November 6, 1996 TAG: 9611060601
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C2 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY HARRY MINIUM, STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: NORFOLK LENGTH: 39 lines
If he is successful in attracting an NHL expansion team next month, sources say George Shinn likely will attempt to purchase the Hampton Roads Admirals.
Shinn would keep the team in Norfolk and the ECHL until the NHL team, which would be called the Rhinos, begins play in three to four years. Shinn then likely would move the Admirals and operate the club as the Rhinos' ECHL affiliate.
Shinn told Admirals vice president Page Johnson he would like to purchase the club if his NHL effort is successful Tuesday during a visit to Hampton Roads to kick off a Rhinos' season-ticket drive. Shinn, owner of the NBA's Charlotte Hornets, has applied to bring an NHL expansion franchise to Hampton Roads.
Johnson declined comment, but Tom Ward, vice president of marketing for the Hornets, acknowledged a meeting occurred and that Shinn may have an interest in buying the Admirals.
``I know there's been some discussion. I don't know if that's going to happen,'' said Ward, who is leading the Rhinos' season-ticket sale. ``What is his interest level? I don't know. I'd say it's very premature at best.''
Sources say Shinn thinks purchasing the Admirals would provide him with a chance to promote the Rhinos for the three to four years it would take before the NHL team could begin play. It would also give his staff a chance to operate a hockey team in Hampton Roads.
There also could be public relations benefits. Johnson and majority owner Mark Garcea would essentially be forced to move if the Rhinos come to Hampton Roads, and Shinn would be under no legal obligation to compensate them.
Norfolk Mayor Paul D. Fraim said he was aware of the meeting and glad it occurred.
``I think everyone, both the city and Mr. Shinn, want to ensure the continued good relationship with the Admirals and to the extent possible, see to it that the Admirals investment is protected,'' Fraim said. ``They are a very valuable member of our community.'' by CNB