The Canberra Brave's dream-run in the Australian Ice Hockey League has strengthened the capital's case for a new ice rink that could host finals and All-Star games in the ACT.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Canberra, who have already secured their second-straight minor premiership, have dominated the season but will effectively be the away team come finals.
The Brave are on-track for a second Goodall Cup title but their campaign will be decided at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium, home of the second-placed Newcastle North Stars.
The finals are set to return to Newcastle for the first time in seven-years after the league struggled to fill Melbourne's The Icehouse last year.
League officials considered current and predicted standings when moving the venue to Newcastle, but Canberra remains unlikely to host future finals despite their growing dynasty.
And why? Phillip Swimming and Ice Skating Centre, complete with it's chicken-wire screen, does not meet the league's standards. The 'Brave Cave' has an under-sized rink, small seating capacity and lack of corporate and media facilities.
MORE CANBERRA SPORT
But the AIS Arena, which held Disney on Ice earlier this year, could be converted into a temporary ice-hockey venue for finals. Canberra coach Rob Starke said the cost of hiring the venue is a significant roadblock.
"Until we get an approved venue we're not going to be in a position to host the finals weekend," Starke said.
"Hopefully one day we'll have a new rink and an opportunity to play finals ice-hockey in front of our home fans.
"There has been some talk about putting a temporary venue at the AIS Arena but again, that comes down to whether it's commercial or makes sense for the league. It certainly would be quite an amazing attraction and event if that were to happen."
The Brave are only one-win away from equalising their best return in club history when they host the Sydney Ice Dogs and Melbourne Mustangs this weekend.
The Mustangs are competing for fourth-position on the ladder with two weeks of the regular season remaining. They sit only three-points behind Perth Thunder, who are set to take on Melbourne Ice.
Although the matches won't affect Canberra's position on top-of-the-ladder, Starke's side won't be taking either team lightly.
"We have no reason to let our guard down even though they don't have a big impact on us in terms of standings," Starke said.
"It's always great to have very competitive games for this stage of the season and they will place importance in our preparation for finals.
"The Mustangs are known for their speed and will be a very quick team in the Brave Cave. We need to match their work ethic."
The Brave will play their last three matches of the regular season in Canberra before finals kickoff on August 31.
"Everyone of our players understands how passionate our fans are and it gives us a bit of a jump in our step," Starke said.
"It's one of our last opportunities to play in front of our home crowd this season so we're expecting a very charged-up fan base."
AUSTRALIAN ICE HOCKEY LEAGUE
Saturday: Canberra Brave v Sydney Ice Dogs at Phillip Swimming and Ice Skating Centre, 5.30pm.
Sunday: Canberra Brave v Melbourne Mustangs at Phillip Swimming and Ice Skating Centre, 4.30pm.
Lucie Bertoldo
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
