SUNRISE, Fla. – Florida Panthers President of Hockey Operations & General Manager Dale Tallon announced today that the club’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds will open their training camp for the 2017-18 season on Friday, Sept. 22 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Mass.

Additionally, the Panthers have loaned forward Curtis Valk and defenseman Thomas Schemitsch to Springfield. Florida’s training camp roster is now reduced to 40 players.

The best way to secure your place at the Thunderbirds' home opener on Sat., Oct. 14 is by becoming a Thunderbirds ticket package holder. Thunderbirds "10 Flex +2" plans offer ten redeemable ticket vouchers for any 2017-18 regular season home game at the MassMutual Center, in addition to two tickets to Opening Night on Oct. 14 at 7:05 p.m. ET.

Springfield Thunderbirds fans are encouraged to visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com to learn more about Thunderbirds Season Ticket Memberships. Packages start at $12 per game and feature the most benefits, including an exclusive commemorative jersey. For more information, fans may call the Thunderbirds ticket office at (413) 739-GOAL (4625).