Only time will tell how successful Wenatchee’s new North American Hockey League franchise will be in the long run in terms of profitability and permanence in the community. But I believe one thing to be certain: Rocky Flynn and Bill Stewart found the right man to be the team’s inaugural coach. In his introductory press conference on Thursday, Paul Baxter sounded like a tough, determined man that will not tolerate flaky attitudes or mediocrity on his team. The team was purchased so close to the start of the season that you’d think the team’s first year would be a lost cause because of the small window to find players and to get things organized in the front office. After listening to Baxter on Thursday, I don’t feel like Wenatchee’s team is lagging behind at all.

Plus, the guy has a vested interest in the team’s success. Since he’s a part owner of the team, and uprooted his family from sunny Fort Lauderdale, Fla. to come to North Central Washington, he’s going to to everything he can to make sure that the team is as successful as he can make it.

I know it’s only been one day, but I feel confident that no matter how many people are in the stands watching, Paul Baxter’s hockey team will be playing the game the right way.