The best teams in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) will compete for the Memorial Cup in Regina next year, but getting the Brandt Centre up to par with tournament standards will not be an inexpensive endeavor.
The Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) and the 2018 Memorial Cup Committee are requesting $1.3 million in financial support from the City of Regina to upgrade the 40-year-old arena.
This request is part of a $4.06 million investment according to REAL, who are chipping in $1.5 million. The Memorial Cup Committee, which includes Regina Pat’s owner Queen City Sports and Entertainment Group, will put in $1.23 million.
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REAL says the upgrades will put the facility in line with standards established by the CHL, and improve the arena for future major events and the community’s long-term use.
According to REAL, hosting the Memorial Cup next year is expected to generate $11 million in economic activity in Regina.
“We’ve worked closely with the Memorial Cup Committee to determine the necessary upgrades to the Brandt Centre,” Mark Allan, REAL president and CEO, said.
“We’re putting forward the funding request in partnership with the committee with sights on the 2018 event, and our organization also wants to ensure the facility will continue providing benefit to the community for years. We look forward to the 2018 Memorial Cup and putting on a great event for hockey fans.”
The renovation plans include new arena boards and glass, improvements to the light and sound systems, additions and improvements to the VIP area, media and fan seating with hospitality spaces, upgrades to the dressing rooms, washroom improvements and upgrades for on-ice officials.
The four team Memorial Cup tournament will be held May 18-27, 2018. The Regina Pats are automatically entered in the tournament as the host team. League champions from the WHL, OHL, and QMHL will be the other three teams.
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