Junior hockey at the event center

Local business owner, hockey coach, and former Sundogs player said his family drives to Flagstaff 3-4 days a week for hockey and urged the council to see the proposal as youth hockey, figure skating, and community programming — not just one team.

Vice commissioner of the Parks, Arts and Rec Commission emphasized youth sports and tourism benefits, noting junior players live with local families and become coaches and role models for local kids.

Father of an NHL goalie and Olympic gold medalist, he credited Tier 1 junior hockey with his son's career and described the community culture junior players bring, from hospital visits to billet family bonds.