Blizzard hockey organization announces plans to expand

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The Blizzard hockey organization announced their plans to expand and operate two junior hockey teams during the 2012-2013 season.

The Alexandria Blizzard will now compete in the North American 3 Hockey League (3HL), one of six USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier III Junior leagues.

The 3HL West division, which the Blizzard will compete in, is composed of teams in Little Falls, Mason City, IA, Oakdale and Sauk Rapids. The Blizzard will operate a second team out of Brookings, SD, which will compete in the North American Hockey League.

The organization will have an entirely new set of opponents in the upcoming season. One of those teams, the Granite City Lumber Jacks from Sauk Rapids, will have a familiar face. Former Blizzard head coach, Brad Willner, is currently the head coach and general manager of the Lumber Jacks. Willner served as the Blizzard head coach and general manager for four seasons from 2005 to 2009 before accepting the same position with the Lumber Jacks.

“We are excited and grateful for this opportunity to expand and provide more opportunities for local hockey players to reach their goal of one day playing college hockey,” said Chris Canavati, Blizzard owner.

The 2012-13 Alexandria Blizzard hockey schedule has not yet been released.

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