The United States Hockey League is set to broaden its footprint with the addition of a new franchise in Prescott Valley, Arizona, as part of a six‑market expansion announced recently. The team will begin play in the 2027‑28 season, giving the community a top‑level junior hockey experience.
A Legacy of Hockey in Prescott Valley
The Findlay Toyota Center, long accustomed to packed arenas, will serve as the home venue for the incoming club. The facility previously hosted the Arizona Sundogs of the Western Hockey League and has been a focal point for local sports enthusiasts.
The expansion is bolstered by the involvement of three Hall‑of‑Fame‑caliber figures — Luc Robitaille, Joe Sakic and Teemu Selanne — who will meet with the league’s leadership in July to discuss branding, arena agreements and operational plans.
The USHL currently fields 16 teams and is recognized as the premier tier of junior hockey in the United States, serving as a direct pipeline to NCAA Division I programs and, ultimately, the National Hockey League.
Community Impact and Economic Outlook
Local families can look forward to a new tradition of winter evenings spent cheering for home‑grown talent, with the league promising community outreach programs and youth development initiatives. Economic analysts predict that the franchise will generate significant activity for local businesses, from hospitality services to retail, while also providing a developmental pathway for aspiring athletes across the Southwest.