Odessa Jackalopes (1997–2011)


 * This article is about the defunct original Odessa Jackalopes of the CHL from 1997 until 2011. For the current NAHL franchise of same name, see: Odessa Jackalopes.

The Odessa Jackalopes were a minor professional ice hockey team based in Odessa, Texas. The team played in the Central Hockey League (CHL), and was an affiliate of the New York Islanders. The Jackalopes played their home games at Ector County Coliseum.

All Jackalopes games were broadcast live on KMCM from the franchise's inaugural year until the 2009-10 season when KFZX took over the broadcasting rights to the live games and the Monday talk show called Hockey Talk.

History
In October 1997, Odessa joined the Western Professional Hockey League (WPHL). In their first season the home games drew an average of 4,000 spectators. Over the next couple of seasons that numbered leveled off, and the team now averages just over 3,200 hockey fans each game. The team mascot, a Jackalope, quickly became one of the most popular in hockey's minor leagues, and team merchandise featuring the snarling, antlered rabbit, has sold well throughout the United States and Canada.

Leagues
The Jackalopes continued playing in the WPHL until 2001 when the league merged with the Central Hockey League. Since the 2001-2002 season the Jackalopes have played in the CHL.

On March 23, 2011, the team confirmed that they would be leaving the CHL and joining the North American Hockey League (NAHL).

Captains
Captain - Sebastian Thinel Alternate - Philippe Plante

Alternate - Mike Ramsay

Note: Thinel named as Captain replacing injured David van Drunen & Ramsay named Alternate.