Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about defunct ice hockey teams, part 4.
What does Part 4 of the Defunct Ice Hockey Teams Encyclopedia cover?
Part 4 focuses on expansion and minor-league franchises from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s, including teams from the IHL, WCHL, and short-lived NHL expansion entries that folded or relocated within just a few seasons.
Who are the primary contributors behind Part 4?
The section was compiled by a small group of regional sports historians and former beat writers who covered the IHL and WCHL during their active years, with fact-checking input from retired players and team executives.
Where should a newcomer begin reading Part 4?
Start with the 'Timeline of Failures' chapter, which walks through each franchise season by season, before moving into the individual team profiles and the oral-history interviews with former coaches and fans.
Which defunct teams receive the most attention in this section?
The Cincinnati Mighty Ducks, the San Diego Gulls, the Indianapolis Racers, and the Miami Manatees are given the deepest profiles, while teams like the Houston Aeros (1994–96) and the Cleveland Lumberjacks receive shorter but still detailed entries.
What is the single most-cited statistic in Part 4?
The section highlights that of the fourteen minor-league franchises profiled, only two survived longer than four seasons, and the average lifespan of a mid-1990s IHL team was roughly 3.2 years.
What notable on-ice moment does Part 4 single out?
The encyclopedia devotes a sidebar to the 1999 IHL Final game seven between the Indianapolis Racers and the Houston Aeros, widely remembered by fans as one of the most dramatic playoff finishes in minor-league history.
How does Part 4 handle teams that were relocated rather than truly defunct?
The section draws a clear line: a franchise that moved under a new name and city is covered in Part 2, while Part 4 focuses on organizations whose original identity, ownership, and fan base were permanently dissolved.
Are there any living figures interviewed in Part 4?
Yes, the section includes recorded interviews with three former IHL general managers, a retired WCHL goaltender, and two long-time season-ticket holders who attended games at the now-demolished arenas.
Where can readers find photographs and game programs referenced in Part 4?
Most archival images are hosted on a companion image gallery maintained by the encyclopedia's volunteer team, while original game programs and ticket stubs are catalogued in the 'Memorabilia Index' appendix with links to private collectors.
How should readers assess the accuracy of Part 4's information?
Every entry lists its primary sources—box scores, newspaper clippings, or direct interviews—and the editors flag any disputed details in a 'Contested Facts' margin note, encouraging readers to cross-reference with official league records.