Chesapeake Icebreakers
The Chesapeake Icebreakers started play in the 1997-98 season at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD. They might be the only hockey team that has held their games at what is usually an equestrian facility.
The Icebreakers were coached by ex-NHL enforcer Chris Nilan, who would win coach of the year for the 1997-98 season. The Icebreakers would go 34-28 in their first season and make the playoffs, getting bounced in the first round. One notable player on the team was goalie David Aebsicher, who would go on to play in the NHL for a number of years.
In their second season the Icebreakers had an almost identical record, 34-25. They would again make the playoffs, earning a first round bye. In round two, they would knock off the Columbus Chill before being bounced in round three. Unfortunately, the team would move to Mississippi after that second season. They were a well kept secret in Maryland, drawing only about 2,500 fans per game despite some on ice success.
