Dear FINatics,

Today the Toledo Walleye organization made the very difficult decision to opt out of competition for the 2020-21 season as part of the ECHL’s COVID-19 Voluntary Suspension policy.

In November, member teams of the ECHL gave us the opportunity to push the start of our season to February. We had hoped the extra time would be enough for the vaccine distribution to begin to take hold and to loosen the COVID-19 attendance restriction to the point where we could safely play a significant portion of the 2020-21 season in front of fans. 

Our business structure is much different than Major League sports, who benefit from lucrative media rights contracts. The Walleye’s financial structure is dependent upon attendance and local sponsorships. After much discussion, we have decided to turn our focus to a safe, healthy and successful 2021-22 season.

It is hard to put into words the disappointment we are feeling today. COVID-19 has impacted all of us in so many ways. We had anticipated another exciting season for our FINatics, in spite of the challenges. Coach Watson had assembled a roster that held the promise of winning a championship and bringing the Kelly Cup home to Toledo. We are heartbroken for you, our players and coaches, and everyone who plays a part in the success of the Walleye. We remain committed to our fans, community and corporate partners, and the entire Toledo region as we look forward to celebrating T-Town Hockey in October.

In the upcoming weeks, you will be receiving communications from one of our Ticket Consultants. Your plan will be rolled over to next season. If you had already chosen to pause your membership, you are all set. Everything is on hold for you—seat location, ticket price and status. Your credit is on your account for the 2021-22 season.

We very much appreciate your unwavering excitement and incredible support and cannot wait to welcome you back to the Huntington Center for the 12th season of Walleye hockey. 

Stay safe and healthy.

Neil Neukam
Executive Vice President and General Manager

Kyle Moll
Director, Ticket Sales