The recent opinion piece, published in The Salt Lake Tribune, has ignited a fervent debate regarding the future of professional hockey in Utah. As a dedicated long-term subscriber to the Tribune and an ardent ice hockey enthusiast, I find it incumbent upon me to contribute to this pivotal discussion.
The author of the op-ed posited that Utah should refrain from investing in an NHL team, citing reasons such as the lack of public interest and economic viability. Nevertheless, I posit that this standpoint overlooks the substantial impact of hockey on the local community and neglects to acknowledge the potential advantages of embracing the sport.
A fundamental point raised in the op-ed was the issue of public funding for sports facilities. Indeed, public funding played a pivotal role in the development of the Delta Center, now recognized as the Vivint Arena, home to the NBA’s Utah Jazz. However, the article failed to recognize the positive economic impact of the arena and the potential benefits of introducing an NHL team to Utah.
Furthermore, the author disparaged the growth of hockey in Utah and cast doubt upon the status of the game in the region. In my capacity as an assistant coach for the Park City and Salt Lake Stars high school hockey teams, I can attest to the burgeoning popularity of the sport in our community. The recent Utah High School Hockey playoffs attracted a sizeable audience, underscoring the local interest in the game.
The op-ed also alluded to USA Hockey player registration numbers in bolstering its claims. While it is accurate that states such as Colorado and Idaho boast a greater number of ice surfaces per capita, it is imperative to note that the popularity of hockey in those states surged significantly following the advent of NHL teams. By introducing professional hockey to Utah, we possess the opportunity to cultivate a burgeoning generation of hockey players and enthusiasts, thereby advancing the sport in our state.
In addressing the concerns regarding ice time and access to facilities, it is palpable that the demand for hockey in Utah surpasses the present capacity. As a participant in recreational league hockey myself, I have firsthand experience of the challenges entailed in securing ice time for games and practices. The existing facilities, originally constructed for the 2002 Winter Olympics, are now fully utilized, constraining the expansion of the sport.
As a fan of both basketball and hockey, I can appreciate the allure of both sports. Nonetheless, I am of the opinion that hockey offers a distinctive and exhilarating experience for enthusiasts. The fast-paced action, skilled plays, and minimal referee involvement engender an enthralling and authentic fan experience. As the author astutely pointed out, the NHL game is even more captivating when experienced live.
Ultimately, I concur with the vision of individuals such as Ryan Smith, who envisage the potential for professional hockey in Utah. With the appropriate support and investment, the NHL stands to flourish in our state, enriching our community and affording new opportunities for sports enthusiasts and players alike.
In conclusion, I implore The Salt Lake Tribune and its readers to reassess the value of hockey in Utah. Embracing the sport, and potentially welcoming an NHL team, has the capacity to yield considerable benefits for our community. It is high time for Utah to accord hockey the acknowledgement and support it rightfully merits.