Motor City changes nickname, logo

The North American Hockey League’s Motor City membership has announced that it has changed its nickname from the Machine to the Metal Jackets.

The team, which was sold last month to a group headed by Japanese businessman Kenji Yamada, played with the Machine moniker last season, its first in Michigan since relocating from Southern Minnesota after the 2007-08 season.

“We’re excited with our name change and our new look,” said Metal Jackets head coach and general manager David Cole.  “We’re looking forward to a fresh start for the entire organization, and this is an important step for us as we develop relationships in the community and with prospective players.”

Motor City, which finished last in the NAHL’s North Division last season, has also altered its logo, ridding of the black and red triangle and text behind the robot.

The Metal Jackets, who play out of the Yack Ice Arena in Wyandotte, Mich., will hold their next open tryout camp from July 31-August 2 at Niagara University’s Dwyer Arena in Niagara Falls, N.Y.