NHL must fix the Arizona fiasco ASAP
Arizona Coyotes are looking to the NCAA for help with playing games in an arena. The size of the arena should pressure the NHL to step in and do one of two things — end the Arizona experiment or fund Arizona new arena. The Coyotes’ struggle to find a suitable arena has been a long-standing issue for the team. With their current home, Gila River Arena, located in Glendale and distant from the majority of their fan base in Phoenix, it has become increasingly challenging to generate consistent attendance and revenue.
Realizing the urgency of finding a viable solution, the Coyotes have turned their attention to exploring potential partnerships with NCAA arenas. These NCAA arenas offer the Coyotes several advantages. Firstly, they are typically located in or near major cities, making it easier for fans to attend games. This could help boost attendance and create a more vibrant game-day atmosphere. Additionally, many of these arenas have established fan bases and a strong hockey culture due to hosting college hockey games. Partnering with an NCAA arena would allow the Coyotes to tap into this existing fan base and potentially expand their own.
NCAA arenas are often equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities that would enhance the overall fan experience. These arenas are designed to cater to large crowds and provide comfortable seating, ample parking, and a variety of food and beverage options. By utilizing these existing resources, the Coyotes can focus on delivering an exceptional game-day experience for their fans without having to invest heavily in infrastructure.
Another advantage of partnering with NCAA arenas is the potential for increased revenue streams. These arenas are typically located in college towns with a strong fan base and a passionate community. By tapping into this existing market, the Coyotes can expect to see an increase in ticket sales, merchandise purchases, and sponsorship opportunities. The NCAA arenas often attract not only local fans but also visiting teams’ supporters, creating an opportunity for the Coyotes to expand their reach and grow their fan base. Furthermore, these arenas often have state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant game-day atmosphere that can enhance the overall fan experience. This could potentially help attract new fans who may not have previously considered attending Coyotes games.
In addition to the increased attendance, playing in NCAA arenas can also provide the Coyotes with a unique marketing opportunity. College towns are known for their passionate sports culture, with fans deeply invested in supporting their teams. By playing in NCAA arenas, the Coyotes can tap into this fervent fan base and leverage their support to build a stronger following for the team. The opportunity to engage with college students and alumni is particularly valuable, as they often have strong ties to their alma mater and are more likely to be dedicated sports fans.
Moreover, hosting games in NCAA arenas can generate significant media attention. This media attention can help raise the profile of the Coyotes and attract new fans who may not have been familiar with the team before. National sports networks often cover NCAA games, providing a platform for the Coyotes to showcase their talent and gain exposure to a wider audience.
Additionally, playing in NCAA arenas can also help the Coyotes tap into a passionate and enthusiastic fan base. College sports are known for their lively atmospheres, with fans often displaying unwavering loyalty and creating an electric environment. By bringing their games to these arenas, the Coyotes can feed off the energy of the crowd and create a memorable experience for both players and spectators.
Hosting games in NCAA arenas can open up opportunities for collaboration with college athletic programs. This collaboration can include joint marketing efforts, cross-promotions, and potential partnerships for community outreach initiatives. By aligning themselves with well-established college sports programs, the Coyotes can gain exposure to a wider audience and attract new fans who may not have previously followed professional hockey.
Furthermore, hosting games in NCAA arenas could provide the Coyotes with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that they may not have at their own home arena. In addition to the benefits of exposure and access to top-notch facilities, partnering with college sports programs can also create opportunities for player development and scouting. The Coyotes can establish relationships with college coaches and staff, allowing them to monitor promising young talent who may eventually join their organization.
Collaborating with college sports programs can foster a sense of community engagement. The Coyotes could work together with these institutions on various outreach initiatives, such as hosting hockey clinics for local youth or participating in charity events. These initiatives not only benefit the community but also help to build a positive reputation for the Coyotes organization. By leveraging their partnership with college sports programs, the team can position themselves as leaders in promoting youth development and giving back to the local community.
Another advantage of collaborating with college sports programs is access to a larger pool of resources. College athletic departments often have state-of-the-art facilities, including training centers, gyms, and medical staff that can be utilized by professional teams like the Coyotes.