DULUTH — The Atlanta Gladiators announced Tuesday that the League’s Board of Governors has approved the Transfer of Controlling Interest in the team from Gwinnett County Hockey, LLC, an entity controlled by Toby Jeffreys, to Danor Vienna, LLC, an entity owned by P. Daniel Orlich.
“After 15 years as majority owner of the Gladiators it’s time to take the organization to another level. Mr. Daniel Orlich has that ability,” stated Toby Jeffreys.
Jeffreys took over as the majority owner of the Mobile Mysticks Hockey Club 21 years ago and was the man responsible for bringing the franchise to Duluth to become the Gladiators back in 2003.
“For over 23 years as a fan of the ECHL and owner I want to thank everyone along the way who has been instrumental to our success -- our loyal ownership group, sponsors, office and hockey staff, numerous players, our fans, the community, Arena leadership and staff and my partners in the ECHL. I especially want to thank Bill Davidson and Steve Chapman for their dedication, vision and friendship -- for without them, I could have never achieved what I have in minor league professional sports,” added Jeffreys. “Lastly, the support and love of my family, I am really looking forward to spending more quality time with them. I will always remain a fan of the Gladiators and ECHL.”
New owner and real estate developer, P. Daniel Orlich, takes over controlling interest of the team with a previous background in professional sports. The Vienna, VA native previously owned the Edmonton Cracker-Cats of the Northern Baseball league from 2005-2008.
“Toby has poured his heart and pocket book into the Gladiators to bring wholesome family evenings and a nationally competitive team to this community and Arena,” said Orlich. “It is my objective to see the Gladiators grow well beyond the foundation that has been built by Toby and his partners.”
“I would like to thank Toby Jeffreys for his efforts on behalf of the Gladiators and the ECHL over the past 20-plus years. He was a great owner and will be missed by all,” ECHL Commissioner Brian McKenna said. “The ECHL welcomes Daniel to the League, his background in minor league sports will be beneficial.”
Tommy George of the Sports Advisory Group assisted with the transaction on behalf of Gwinnett County Hockey. The Sports Advisory Group provides comprehensive mergers and acquisitions services to major league and minor league team owners, league administrators, prospective team owners and investors, management companies, municipalities and venue operators.
