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Columbus Chill Legacy: How a Minor League Team Inspired NHL Success

In this episode of Ohio Snapshots, we delve into the fascinating story of the Columbus Chill hockey team and its impact on the city.

From the team's humble beginnings to its influence on bringing the NHL's Blue Jackets to Columbus, this is a snapshot of a local sports phenomenon. We'll explore:

  • The origins of the Columbus Chill and its first season in 1991 in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).
  • The marketing campaign that made the Chill a fan favorite before viral marketing was a thing.
  • The lasting impact of the team on Columbus and its hockey culture.
  • How the Columbus Chill played a role in bringing the NHL's Blue Jackets to the city.
  • The significance of the Chill's former general manager, David Paitson, in the team's legacy and the city's sports history.

Ohio Snapshots In Time digs into Ohio history one image at a time. WOSU Public Media produces the series in partnership with the staff of the Columbus Metropolitan Library.