ABBOTSFORD, BC -- The Abbotsford Heat announced today an affiliation agreement with the Alaska Aces of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL). Alaska will now serve as the ECHL affiliate of the Abbotsford Heat (AHL) and the Calgary Flames (NHL).

Alaska has operated as an independent club in the ECHL for the past two seasons, with a number of Aces’ players spending time with the Heat over the past 2 seasons. Former Heat forward Tyler Ruegsegger spent some of the 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons with Alaska before earning a full time spot with the Heat in 2012-13. Alaska players Kane Lafranchise, Jordan Kremyr, and Gary Nunn also attended the 2012-13 AHL training camp in Abbotsford.

“We have a serious commitment to rebuilding and getting our prospects ready to contribute as quickly as possible in Calgary,” said Flames General Manager Jay Feaster. “We continue to demonstrate the importance we have placed on development. In support of these objectives, we are excited to be able to add such a quality organization as the Alaska Aces to our development process.”

"We always said we didn’t just want an affiliation. We wanted the right affiliation," said Terry Parks, Managing Member of the Aces’ ownership group. "The Flames are an organization on the rise. They have a great group of talented, young players, and we are certain that this relationship will pay dividends for both sides."

"There are so many things to be excited about by partnering with Calgary and Abbotsford," Aces’ Head Coach Rob Murray said. "We’re going to be able to give our guys a first-hand look at AHL training camps with a top-notch organization like the Heat. They’re going to be able to take that experience and grow from it all year long. Additionally, we know that we’re going to get some of the best young talent around to develop throughout the season."

The Abbotsford Heat 2013-14 home opener is set for October 11th. For information on season tickets, flex packages and group tickets, please call 1-877-452-HEAT(4328) or visit www.AbbotsfordHeat.com.