Posted by Radiojones on December 09, 1997 at 16:34:32:
From the EHL web site
The EHL/IIHF are pleased to announce an amicable resolution of their differences with Cardiff Devils Ice Hockey Club which avoids the need for the arbitration procedure. Whilst Cardiff remain very disappointed not to be participating in the EHL, they now understand that the EHL is an invitation tournament and no club can automatically participate in the competition through domestic success, although this was initially unclear. The EHL very much regret the embarrassment that has been caused to the Cardiff Club and the City of Cardiff resulting from the severe misunderstanding over the manner in which teams were selected to participate in the EHL, and will be reviewing their documentation to avoid any similar misunderstanding in the future. The matter of costs has been resolved between the two parties concerned.
EHL Director Federico Saviozzi said: "We are pleased that this matter has been resolved, which is in the best interest of European ice hockey. There was clearly a misunderstanding between us regarding the documentation which has now been cleared up. "The EHL wishes the BT Cardiff Devils the best sport's success. We would be pleased to consider and evaluate, according to the EHL standards, any further application from Cardiff or, indeed, any club from the British territory".
Mr. David Temme, President of Cardiff Devils Ice Hockey Club, said: "I am pleased that this has been agreed and that the settlement initiative prompted by the Ice Hockey Superleague has been successful. Cardiff have always been keen to participate in European Competition and particularly in the EHL, and we hope that we will have an early opportunity to enjoy European ice hockey once again. I am also sure that the completion of a new arena will undoubtedly strenghten our position in domestic, European and International ice hockey. "I am glad this issue has now been sorted out and reconfirm Cardiff's support for the IIHF and the EHL competitions".