ECHL: History Of The Norfolk Admirals

The history of the Norfolk Admirals is one of triumphs, challenges, and unwavering dedication to hockey and its fans. 

As an Airman who got stationed out here in the Norfolk area, I was able to get a feel for the area’s culture pretty quickly. The city of Norfolk embodies a unique blend of passion and dedication, evident in both its fervent support for local sports teams like the Norfolk Admirals and its strong ties to the military community. The Norfolk Admirals serve as a true reflection of the city and its roots, while their devoted fans have shown unwavering support for the team for several decades. 

Where It All Began: 

In 1989, Blake Cullen purchased an ECHL franchise to be located in Norfolk, Virginia, and the team was named the Hampton Roads Admirals to honor the city’s significant Navy and military presence. The Admirals would play at Norfolk Scope Arena. Under the guidance of former Toronto Maple Leafs coach John Brophy, the Admirals began their journey with an affiliation agreement with the NHL’s Washington Capitals, setting the stage for their remarkable journey. 

Early ECHL Years: 

On October 28, 1989, the Admirals announced their arrival into the league with a resounding 6-3 victory in their first game in team history over the Virginia Lancers. The taste of success further motivated the team, foreshadowing what would be their first ECHL championship in April 1991, followed by a second title in 1992. The pinnacle of their achievements came in 1993 when they secured their third consecutive (and most remarkable) ECHL title, the Kelly Cup, in an improbable and unbelievable playoff run. 

It all began with the fight to get into the playoffs, and it couldn’t have been scripted any better. The Admirals needed to not only to win their final three games of the regular season but they needed the surging Columbus Chill to lose their final games as well – all for a spot in the playoffs. A chance. What happened next was nothing short of a miracle, as the Admirals clinched the playoffs, defeated the first-seeded Peoria Rivermen in the first round, and moved on to round two to find themselves in a battle with Roanoke. Although the Admirals found themselves down 2-0 in the series, they were no strangers to winning three games in a row when it mattered most. They completed the comeback, defeating Roanoke and conquering the impossible. Winning their third ECHL title in three years was an incredible feat, solidifying the Admirals’ reputation and establishing them as a formidable force in the hockey world.

I’m Ready, Promotion: 

In 2000, the Admirals made a significant transition, joining the American Hockey League (AHL) as an expansion franchise affiliated with the Chicago Blackhawks. Still, under the mentorship of John Brophy, the Admirals continued to excel, qualifying for the playoffs for an impressive 18 consecutive seasons and forming successful partnerships with NHL teams such as the Tampa Bay Lightning. 

In 2012, the Tampa Bay Lightning became the NHL affiliate of the Norfolk Admirals, allowing the team to develop promising young players within the Lightning’s organization, further strengthening their position in the hockey world. 

The highlight of their AHL tenure came in February 2012, when they achieved an awe-inspiring feat under the guidance of head coach Jon Cooper. The Admirals set a North American Hockey record with a remarkable 28-game winning streak, captivating hockey fans nationwide and solidifying their position as a dominant force in the AHL. Their incredible season culminated in the Calder Cup Championship, where they won their first AHL title, bringing immense pride to the city of Norfolk. 

Today: 

Despite facing recent challenges and transitions, the Admirals’ passion for the game and relentless pursuit of excellence have remained constant. Their resilience and commitment to growth were evident in their response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, as they resumed preparations for the 2021-22 season and signed affiliation agreements with the Carolina Hurricanes and the Chicago Wolves. 

To this day, the Norfolk Admirals are still a beloved fixture in the ECHL, leaving a long-lasting mark on the league with their record-breaking achievements. Their legacy of dedication, perseverance, and triumph has earned them a respected and esteemed status in the world of professional ice hockey. Even now, the Norfolk Admirals continue to enjoy significant success both on and off the ice, with a roster of talented players and a devoted fan base that passionately supports them. As the Admirals skate forward, their inspiring journey remains a beacon of inspiration to hockey fans and aspiring players alike, embodying the true essence of hockey and the city of Norfolk.