As talks progress on a new arena for the Arizona Coyotes and Arizona State University hockey, officials are expressing interest in a location in Tempe.
It has been known that the Coyotes and ASU are looking to partner on a new arena, with locations in the Phoenix area being discussed. While ASU wants to grow its hockey program, the Coyotes are looking to leave Gila River Arena in Glendale at some point in the near future.
The latest report indicates that the two parties are zeroing in on the location of the Karsten Golf Course. This particular site would offer some advantages for both ASU and the Coyotes. While ASU would convert the land into an on-campus arena, the Coyotes would being playing in an accessible venue. More from AZ Central:
A key is the finalization of a new arena deal. The organization is deep in talks with Arizona State about the land at Karsten Golf Course which would house a joint facility. ASU — which launched a Division I hockey program last season — will not comment and the Coyotes, out of respect for ASU, have been quiet, other than president and CEO Anthony LeBlanc’s proclamation at the team’s kickoff luncheon last month that he would have information soon.
A new facility in Tempe would be an important boost for the organization. The location is better, near the intersection of the 101 and 202 freeways, and accessible by light rail.
An organization long plagued by relocation rumors and unsatisfying arena deals would benefit from a more fan-friendly location.
ASU currently plays at Oceanside Ice Arena which, according to ASU athletics website, seats fewer than 800 fans. The program, however, has found success in a partnership with the Coyotes that has allowed it to play select games at Gila River Arena.
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