ASU Hockey: Coyotes and Sun Devil Athletics release new arena plans in Tempe

(Photo: Arizona Coyotes)

As a part of the Arizona Coyotes’ arena announcement on Monday, Catellus Development Corporation has confirmed that the Tempe project will also be the new home of Sun Devil hockey.

The new development will include a 16,000 seat arena – the new home of the Arizona Coyotes – as well as a 4,000 seat multi-sport facility to be utilized by Sun Devil Athletics. In addition to the two arenas, the project will also feature commercial elements, including a new hotel.

The proposed 58-acre development is set to be constructed on the Northwest corner of McClintock Drive and Rio Salado Parkway, located next to ASU’s Karsten Golf Course.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Coyotes for their new facility,” executive vice president for Catellus Development Corporation Greg Weaver said. “As the first major partner for the ASU Athletic Facilities District, the Coyotes campus will set an exciting tone for this innovative, urban corridor.”

Arizona State’s hockey program is currently in its second season as a Division I NCAA program. For the past two years, the Arizona Coyotes partnered with Sun Devil Athletics to help aid the team’s leap to the NCAA ranks.

In Arizona State’s inaugural season, the Arizona Coyotes and Gila River Arena played host to the team’s season opener against ACHA Arizona. The venue was also the site of the first ever Desert Hockey Classic. In its first full NCAA season, ASU has played four games at Gila River Arena, including match-ups against marquee programs like Air Force and Michigan.

The team is currently housed at Oceanside Ice Arena, where the Sun Devils have played since their days in the club ranks.

The proposed deadline for the project’s budget, design and operational plan is set for June 30, 2017.

“Over the past year we have been exhaustive in our research regarding the most optimal location for our new home in the Valley,” Arizona Coyotes President and CEO Anthony LeBlanc said. “While we have tremendous fans all across the greater Phoenix metro area, not to mention the entire state, it became clear that the East Valley is home to a majority of our fans and corporate partners. Our fans in the West Valley have shown us tremendous support over the past 13 years, and we look forward to working with them as we transition to our new home in the future.”