The Orlando Solar Bears announced their affiliation with the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and AHL’s Houston Aeros, Thursday afternoon at the RDV Sportsplex.

“They will be very involved with us,” said Bob Ohrablo, Chief Operating Officer.

The Orlando Solar Bears, who are embarking in a return to Central Florida, are looking forward to working with the Minnesota Wild and Houston Aeros in the off-season, despite yet having an established management and team.

“The coaching is very important decision for us, and they will be involved in the process in hiring the coach, we’ll have the final say,” said Ohrablo. “Hopefully within the next 4-6 weeks, we’ll have something there.”

Orlando Mayor, Buddy Dyer, was also present during the press conference and expressed much optimism on the partnership with the Wild and Aeros.

“The community has already embraced the Solar Bears, and the Solar Bears likewise have already been a great community partner,” said Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Adding an NHL and AHL affiliation will foster that even more.”

With the City of Orlando now having four well established sports teams, the average sports fan in the Central Florida area will have more of a variety of sports he or she can go watch.

Orlando City Soccer, has seen a great turn out during their first two seasons in operation. With the Solar Bears coming back into town, the same outcome is expected as well.

“What’s great about both the Solar Bears and Orlando City, the ownership are committed to Orlando. They’re embracing youth sports in both hockey and soccer,” said Mayor Dyer.

The Solar Bears will compete in the East Coast Hockey League, and will play 36 games at the Amway Center once the season starts in early October.