The Chicago Blackhawks announced today a partnership with the Blackhawks Standbys as the team’s official fan club, which is the oldest of its kind in the National Hockey League. The Blackhawks Standbys club was founded in 1944 by a group of fans seated in the first balcony of the Chicago Stadium and is currently led by President Gladys Wheeler. The club derived its name from their commitment to always “stand by” the Blackhawks. Fans interested in joining the Blackhawks Standbys can call (312) 455-7177 or email standbys@chicagoblackhawks.com.

“In the same spirit the Blackhawks have welcomed back Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, Tony Esposito and Denis Savard, we wanted to reach out and reconnect with the Blackhawks Standbys, the oldest fan club in the NHL,” Senior Executive Director of Marketing and Business Development Dave Knickerbocker said. “It’s the perfect way to bring together some of the most loyal Blackhawks fans with a new generation of followers.”

The club is made up of two different tiers, including “Ambassadors” and “All-Stars.” “All-Star” benefits include a personalized membership card that grants a 10% discount at The Blackhawks Stores, access to United Center meetings, alumni autograph sessions, a Blackhawks Standbys t-shirt, a subscription to an exclusive newsletter and more. The “Ambassador” level includes the same benefits as the “All-Star” level along with a special skate party at the United Center and private locker room tours.

In addition, Blackhawks Alumni members and current broadcasters Troy Murray and Eddie Olczyk have been named honorary chairmen of the Blackhawks Standbys. Beginning with the conclusion of the 2010-11 season, the Blackhawks Standbys will present a Player of the Year award to a member of the team.

For more information on The Blackhawks Standbys log on to chicagoblackhawks.com and click the “Blackhawks Standbys” tab located under Fan Zone.