Guppies Success Equals Economic Boom for Killingworth
by Lou Traester

           Map of Killingworth     

(Killingworth, CT) - Think back to 1995, It's not that long ago but for the small town of Killingworth, CT its like a life time ago. In Killingworth 1995 there were only three gas stations, two package stores, one bank, and no traffic lights. However, there was a dream! A dream of something better in Killingworth something that could finally but this small town on the map. The dream was finally realized with the formation of the Killingworth Guppies Hockey Franchise.

The Guppies first took to the dek in May of 1995 and since then it has been a Win-Win situation for the town of Killingworth. "Anyone that was here in the beginning and has been here for the past 9 years can see what a difference the Guppies have been to this town" Killingworth's First Selectman David Denvir. Killingworth has seen several Team Championships since 1995 (1996,1998,2002,2003) and every victory has helped this small town grow into a viable option for people not only to live in, but to do business in. Every new business (Pharmedica, Venuti Enterprises, and recently Dunkin Doughnuts) to set up operations in Killingworth since 1995 have been season ticket holders. "It's a sign of success to be able to obtain Guppies tickets and to be seen at the games, it's very sheek!" added Denvir.      

It's alot easier to sell Killingworth as a place to work and play when there is so much buzz and excitement around town. "Companies have been fighting to get into this town and pay the higher tax rate" stated an unidentified town clerk  "I've been here the last 20 years and I have never seen anything like it". 

So what do the Guppies think about all the hoopla? Guppies Captain Brian Kelly "It's great that the town is benefiting from our success but we just try to stay focused on the game itself". At the recent grand opening at the Dunkin Doughnuts on route 81 Joseph Linskey, Brian Mulcahy, and Legolie were all on hand to sign autographs. "I don't really know much about the town, but there are a lot of cute girls here" stated Linskey "All I know is Legolie is eating all the free dough nuts!!" Mulcahy seemed to admire the fan appreciation "yo, now I know how "team old guy" got involved in the game, there is nothing to do here".

One thing is for certain the Guppies have developed a strong following in this small ever growing town. With many companies hanging Guppies Gear in their front windows and employees lining there office walls with team photos. It's safe to say that the Killingworth / Guppies relationship has been a major success. Today in Killingworth there is still only Three gas stations, two package stores, and one bank, but there is now one traffic light and one fast food chain. Growth and Economic Boom all thanks to a dream and a roller hockey team!