The Ducks have signed an affiliation agreement with the Elmira Jackals of the ECHL.

“We are thrilled to be entering into a formal affiliation agreement with Elmira,” said Ducks Executive Vice President/General Manager Bob Murray. “With ideal proximity to Syracuse and a premier facility in First Arena, Elmira will be a key partner in the development of our young players.”

The Elmira Jackals joined the ECHL in 2007 after playing the previous seven seasons in the United Hockey League (UHL). Since joining the ECHL in 2007-08, Elmira has qualified for the playoffs in all three seasons and led the league in sellouts (32) at First Arena. In 2009-10, Elmira won its first ECHL division championship with a 37-26-9 record for first place in the East Division. The Jackals scored a league-leading 275 goals last season, establishing a franchise record.

“We are very excited to be affiliated with an elite NHL franchise like Anaheim,” said Elmira General Manager Robbie S. Nichols. “It is great to be working with such a well-run organization and we are thrilled about this opportunity.”

Led by new Head Coach Malcolm Cameron, Elmira will open the 2010-11 ECHL regular season on Friday, Oct. 15 when they host the Cincinnati Cyclones at First Arena.