The myth that Atlanta isn't into hockey

Hey, y'all! Despite our struggle to have a third-time's-a-charm NHL team come down here to Atlanta (Thrashers 'til I die, still), I did want to provide a bit of insight into the demand. IT IS REAL!!! First, give us a break. Even the threat of snow cripples the entire metro lol thanks to the 4 salt trucks we have - lol)

But seriously, the sport in the south continues to grow, although not as fast as something like Lacrosse. The problem is, obviously, the lack of rinks and/or places where the game is played. Sadly, there hasn't been many new rinks built in the 20-ish years I've been playing. But I'm optimistic.

I do see other options sprouting. Look, the ice community still has it's core. The AAHL and house rinks do well to keep the true game (ice) alive and hopefully building new rinks is going to be a thing. However, there is more and more roller being offered, and you also have clubs like Atlanta Street Hockey where ball hockey is still gaining traction. There's even a NBHL Georgia Tier 3 ball hockey teams where MASHA (Metro Atlanta Street Hockey Association) competes to play locally, then nationally.

Ultimately, we want the u/NHL to know we're out there, want a team, and want more options to fill my list

Keep your head up.