Tornado names Curtale team president

The Texas Tornado has announced that Tony Curtale has been named the team’s president.  Curtale, who coached the Tornado from its inaugural season in 1999-2000 through the 2006-07 season, will also be returning behind the bench for his ninth year as coach of the three-time national champions.

“It’s a great honor and privilege to become president of the Texas Tornado organization,” said Curtale. “We have assembled a great new team and I look forward to a very successful season on and off the ice.”
 
“Not only has Tony achieved unparalleled success on the ice, but he has extensive experience in executive operations as well," said Kirby Schlegel, team owner and CEO of Schlegel Sports.  "Having been involved in both the on-ice and business development of the Tornado from its inception, Tony is the natural choice to take the franchise to the next level.”
 
The Tornado will open its 10th season this fall at the newly renovated Dr Pepper Arena.  Seating capacity has increased from the old configuration of 3,733 seats to 4,944 seats.  

A new concourse level club lounge has been added with direct access to the suites on the west side of the arena.  The newly expanded and renovated facility will feature additional suites, new restrooms, concourse concessions, an enhanced promenade, three new video boards, and a new parking garage incorporating 1,000 additional parking spaces.

The Tornado has developed and moved on over 80 players in nine years onto NCAA and professional teams.