The t’s have been crossed, the i’s have been dotted — after nearly six months as a minority partner, Zawyer Sports & Entertainment acquired controlling interest of the Charlotte Checkers. Michael Kahn, the team’s current CEO will remain as the largest minority partner.
Here’s the snap shot
The Checkers are the latest addition to Zawyer Sports & Entertainment. The organization owns and operates the Gastonia Baseball Club (acquired Feb. 7, 2024) + three ECHL franchises: The Jacksonville Icemen, Tahoe Knight Monsters, and the Checkers’ newest affiliate, the Savannah Ghost Pirates.
“We have already made an impact here in the community with Gastonia Baseball, and we are eager to grow our footprint in the region by providing local families with quality entertainment, community outreach and competitive hockey,” said Andy Kaufmann, CEO of Zawyer Sports & Entertainment.
“Change is a part of life and if you are unwilling to make or accept change you will get stuck or pass by,” said Kahn. “The time is right to make a change for the Charlotte Checkers and to continue growing this great sport in both Charlotte and this region.”
Prominent partners in Zawyer’s group include NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick, Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow, NFL linebacker Myles Jack, Carolina Panthers long-snapper J.J. Jansen, and Fox NASCAR analyst Regan Smith.
The acquisition keeps the team’s NHL affiliation with the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. The team will also remain at Bojangles Coliseum.
Beyond the power play
The acquisition is not just a business deal, it’s a family matter for Kaufmann and Zawyer Sports.
“My dad’s twin brother actually lived in Charlotte, so he got to attend some games, and it’s a legendary franchise so that’s why this is a dream and a ‘pinch-me’ moment in so many ways,” said Kaufmann.
With excitement in the city regarding upgrades to the Spectrum Center and Bank of America Stadium, will this bring a renewed drive to upgrade Bojangles Coliseum? Maybe.
“We’re working hard to do both those things — bringing improvements here for the fans to enjoy and again, working on math that works for all parties as well,” said Kaufmann.
What about a standalone practice facility, similar to the Carolina Panthers? There’s interest. “I think north Charlotte could be a good spot. What do you guys think?” laughed Kaufmann.
Potential improvements and expansions could be similar to what Zawyer has done in Jacksonville with the Community First Igloo, a two-sheet ice facility with public skating and hockey programs for the public.
“It’s not just about the hockey, it’s about giving back to the city and the region that supports us,” said Kahn. “It’s about providing more opportunity for the youth to play this great sport hockey and it’s about being good community stewards.”
Drop the puck
As for the Checkers, the team’s 2024-2025 home opener is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 18 against the Cleveland Monsters at Bojangles Coliseum. Face-off will be at 7 p.m. Season tickets are on sale now with individual tickets becoming available soon.
