After an inaugural season which achieved record-breaking attendance in the Federal Hockey League, the Carolina Thunderbirds are announcing special recognition for members of their off-the-ice team: 

Scott Brand, President and General Manager, is the recipient of the FHL’s Executive of the Year award. This award is given out to the individual or group whose efforts in their organization help to grow the brand of the FHL and raise the bar of competition and entertainment.

Under Brand’s direction, the Thunderbirds broke the Federal Hockey League’s single-season attendance record in the teams’ first-ever season. Brand, a native of Lansing, Michigan, has been involved with hockey for the last 45 years.

Executive Assistant to the Commissioner and Head of the FHL Awards Committee John Landers commented on the selection of Brand for the award, “What can one say about Scott Brand in the game of professional ice hockey that’s not been said before? Scott simply gets the job done and done well” Wrote Landers. “If there’s an off-ice hockey hat to wear Scott will wear it if necessary to accomplish a goal. What Scott and his dedicated staff in Carolina have accomplished is simply amazing. Record-setting attendance numbers, a loving and trusting community association, and a true family fun environment game in and game out. This is why the FHL Awards Committee has chosen Scott Brand as this year’s Executive of the Year.”

Al Kessler, the team’s announcer and Vice President of Media Relations & Communications, is the recipient of the Broadcaster of the Year award.

John Landers on Kessler being chosen for the award, “Al Kessler, the 2017-18 Broadcaster of the Year is the full package. Al’s consistent dedication to his craft is clear and made his selection by the Awards Committee an easy one. This does not detract from any of the other announcers within the league who also work hard, we just felt that Al’s efforts clearly went the extra mile all season and he should be acknowledged for it.”