Prescott Valley may soon see hockey return to the Findlay Toyota Center, as town leaders and residents consider a proposal to bring a Tier 1 junior hockey team to the community.
The discussion follows a recent town work study session that drew a strong turnout, including many local hockey fans. The focus was on whether the community is ready to support hockey again and what that support would look like if a team returned.
Support for the idea is already emerging from within the community. Brad Fain and Ron Fain, both longtime community builders, have expressed support for bringing hockey back, citing the economic and community benefits it could provide.
Why Not a Professional Team
While some residents would like to see a return of a professional franchise like the Arizona Sundogs, several challenges make that difficult in the current environment. Travel remains one of the biggest hurdles. Professional minor league teams often rely on bus travel, and with opponents located far from Prescott Valley, trips can take multiple days and significantly increase costs.
Housing is another major factor. Costs in Prescott Valley are higher than in many competing markets, making it more expensive to support a full professional roster. Without a nearby cluster of teams or an NHL presence in Arizona to help anchor a system, sustaining a pro team locally remains a challenge.
Junior Hockey Offers a Different Path
The proposed Tier 1 junior league presents a more practical and development-focused option. The league would feature players ages 16 to 20 who are working toward college programs or professional careers. Because these athletes are still developing, the level of competition is expected to be fast-paced and highly competitive, with scouts regularly attending games.
The league is expected to include teams in Phoenix, Southern California, Nevada, and potentially Utah. This regional structure reduces travel demands while creating natural rivalries that can help build fan interest and long-term sustainability.
Community and Economic Impact
Junior hockey is closely tied to the communities it serves. Players typically live with local billet families, which helps reduce costs while also creating strong connections between the team and residents. This model allows families to play a direct role in supporting players throughout the season.
Adding a team would also expand youth hockey opportunities in the area. With more access to practices, leagues, and camps, local families would no longer need to travel as frequently to Phoenix or Flagstaff for ice time.
From an economic standpoint, hockey could help address ongoing challenges at the Findlay Toyota Center. The facility was designed to host far more events than it currently does, and a team could bring more than 30 home games each season, along with daily practices and additional programming. While hockey alone would not fully close the gap, it would significantly increase usage and move the venue closer to its intended capacity.
Looking Ahead
The proposed league has backing from the NHL, which continues to invest in development pathways for young players. This support could help attract talent from across North America and Europe while providing opportunities for advancement to higher levels of competition.
Town leaders are continuing to evaluate the proposal, balancing economic considerations with long-term community benefits. If the team moves forward, its success will depend on community support, including attendance and participation.
