Coyotes, ASU reach agreement on future arena plans
Despite relocation whispers, Arizona’s NHL team will be staying in the state
Courtesy of the Arizona Coyotes
The Coyotes are leaving Gila River Arena for a new facility next season.
The Arizona Coyotes will remain in the Valley for the foreseeable future.
On Thursday, the club announced an agreement with Arizona State University to use a new multi-purpose arena in Tempe as their new home for the time being.
“The National Hockey League thanks Arizona State University for its support of the Coyotes during this transition period and for what will be just its latest major commitment to growing our game in the Valley,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated in a press release. “Hockey is thriving in Tempe, and we are delighted that the Coyotes’ passionate fans will get to experience ASU’s on-campus energy while the Club’s new arena is being built.”
According to the release, the Coyotes will also move their executive offices to the East Valley by the end of 2022 as the club closes one chapter of its history. The Coyotes have played at Glendale’s Gila River Arena since 2003.
The Coyotes currently have a bid with the city of Tempe to build their own entertainment district, spanning 46 acres near Rio Salado Parkway and Priest Drive, for approximately $1.7 million.
“We are pleased to help the Coyotes by providing a temporary home while their new arena is built,” ASU executive vice president, treasurer, and CFO Morgan R. Olsen said. “We are beyond excited to open this wonderful new ASU arena, and this agreement just makes it even more special.”
Coyotes President Xavier A. Gutierrez shared his excitement about the “incredible, intimate and exciting fan experience.”
“We are very grateful to Dr. (Michael) Crow, the ASU Administration, ASU Athletic Department, and the Arizona Board of Regents for agreeing to provide us with this temporary arena solution for our team as we continue our efforts to secure a long-term home for the Coyotes in the Valley,” Gutierrez added.
As part of the deal, the Coyotes are in discussions with Ice Den Scottsdale to make it their full-time practice facility. They have used the rink intermittently since 2003 on occasions where Gila River Arena was unavailable.
The current state of the Coyotes bid for the arena in Tempe is unknown.
