WHA2 isn't in dire straights

David Waronker wanted to make it clear that the WHA2 isn't in the dire financial straits that some Internet postings have the league in.

The league founder, who owns the Trax among the five teams he has a stake in, admits that the WHA2 could be doing better financially, but said most of the rumors posted on various hockey message boards weren't accurate.

"Isn't it ridiculous?" he said. "We don't respond to it because it's all smoke. It's absurd. All we think about is going forward."

While some of the rumors have been false, some of the league's struggles are public. Those have helped fuel speculation about the WHA2's viability.

Three of the league's six teams, including Macon, have average attendances below 2,000. The only team doing well at the gate this season is Jacksonville, which averages over 4,000 per game.

In addition, Waronker confirmed that some of the league's employees have taken pay cuts, but were getting other compensation to make up for it.

"There's no question we're behind in expectations," Waronker said. "But I don't think anyone in any hockey league can make a boast right now."

Waronker pointed out that Jacksonville struggled last season when it had an ACHL franchise and is doing much better this season. He hopes that, given time, the other clubs will follow suit. Waronker also is hoping that attendance will pick up with football season over.

"All I can say is that last year, Jacksonville had horrific attendance," he said. "You've got to give it time."

Allan Howell, founder of the World Hockey Association, said his league would likely step in should the WHA2's struggles become catastrophic. The WHA hopes that the WHA2 will become its farm system once the former begins play next year.

"We would make sure that was not the case," Howell said. "The WHA2, one way or another from our perspective, would continue. We're here to support WHA2 and we're anxious and willing to do that."

Home
News
Schedule
Photos
Links
Message Board
Email:  [email protected]