Rumors Of Augusta Lynx Disbanding Raise Concerns

Augusta—It all began when the Charlotte Observer released the information. Of course, we don’t know how or why these rumors were started. But either way you look at it, it’s not good, and if you’ve been to a game lately, you would notice that, too.

Sam Roney, Augusta Lynx season ticket holder:  “Well I think was in total shock, most of the hard core fans, and there’s a number of us. I don’t know how many really, I’d say at least 1,500, close to 2,000.”

Sam Roney has been an Augusta Lynx season ticket holder since opening season, 10 years ago.  He says he’s not impressed by the way he heard of the Lynx possibility of folding.

Roney:  “You know, this has not been done right. I mean, it shouldn’t have been presented this way, where we discover it on a Charlotte webpage, whoever found it.”

Shortly after the Charlotte Observer posted the article, it was removed.  A few hours later, WJBF News Channel 6 received a press release from the ECHL, stating the rumors simply aren’t true.  As for their financial status, Lynx officials tell us they’re struggling, and attendance proves that.

Richard Isdell, Chairman, Augusta Coliseum Authority:  “It’s about 2,200, I think attend, on average. But out of that, it seems to be that about half of that number is comp tickets, so you’ve got about 1,100 diehard fans, is what I’m afraid of, and I don’t know if that’s enough to sustain the Lynx.“

Brien Sewart, Augusta Lynx fan:  “I hope they make it, I would really hate to see them go. It’s one of the few things, sportswise Augusta has left.  If they knock that off, then there’s not a whole lot left to watch.”

If that’s what the future holds for the Lynx, the Augusta Coliseum Authority says, no need to fear, on their end.

Isdell:  “We’ll still be here. We’ll be in good shape. I think Augusta, primarily, I know there’s some, that like hockey, but I think the majority of Augusta’s looking for concerts to come to.”

Either way, it may all come down to the fans, to decide the fate of their hockey team.

Roney:  “I think all of the fans are making an effort, I just don’t know if there’s enough of us.”

At last check, Isdell and the James Brown Arena’s General Manager have not spoken with anyone from the Lynx. But as of right now, it is game on for the Lynx, this weekend.

For more information and reaction from Coach John Marks, click here.