For local hockey fans, the big day has finally arrived. The Quad City Mallards open the new season Friday night with a home game against Rapid City, at the I Wireless Center.
Earlier this month the Mallards and the other six remaining members of the Central Hockey League were invited to join the ECHL. And team president, Bob McNamara, says that will bring what he calls a "new era for hockey" to the Quad Cities.
And he promised this season will continue the team's focus on providing affordable, family entertainment.
Coach and general manager, Terry Ruskowski, says he's had to make some changes now that the Mallards have joined ECHL.
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But he believes his players will be ready, and adjust to the new league as the season goes on.
The Mallards will open the season with three games against Rapid City - a fellow former member of the Central Hockey League - Friday night and Saturday night at home, then at Rapid City on Tuesday. Next weekend, the Quad Cities will host a team it's never played before - the Cincinnati Cyclones.