The Syracuse Crunch

Presented by Solvay Bank

This feature of CEO Insights spotlights local companies that are “Economic Champions” because of their success in adding jobs; expanding their products or services; advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; gaining national recognition or contributing to the success of the region in special ways.

The Syracuse Crunch are an American Hockey League team that plays in the Upstate Medical University Arena in downtown Syracuse. With a focus on providing engaging, high quality professional sports entertainment for Central New York, the Crunch strive to build a winning tradition throughout the organization and establish a reputation of integrity and professionalism through initiatives sensitive and responsive to the community the team represents.

The Crunch were founded in 1994 by Howard Dolgon and are currently celebrating their 30th season. The club hosted the AHL’s first-ever outdoor game in 2010, set the United States indoor professional hockey attendance record in 2014 and hosted the AHL All-Star Classic in 1998 and 2016. More than 380 players have passed through Syracuse on their way to the National Hockey League.

The Crunch have been the top affiliate of the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning since the 2012-13 season. Since the start of the affiliation with Tampa Bay, 84 players have appeared in games for both Syracuse and Tampa Bay and the Crunch have appeared in two Calder Cup Finals (2013 and 2017).

In addition to providing entertaining and exciting hockey that consistently extends into the postseason, the Crunch are focused on positively impacting Central New York through the Crunch Foundation. The foundation has provided support and funds to nonprofit groups, educational programs and community initiatives since its inception in 1997.

For 30 years, the Crunch have been a staple of the Syracuse community working with numerous local partners. The team provides hard-hitting action, while the organization continually reaffirms its commitment to supporting its neighbors. To purchase tickets for a Crunch game or learn more about the exciting theme nights, visit www.syracusecrunch.com.