The recent partnership between the Los Angeles Kings and the American Sports Entertainment Company (ASEC) with Loyola Marymount University (LMU) marks an exciting development in the world of collegiate sports and ice hockey. This multi-year agreement will relocate LMU’s Men’s Ice Hockey team to LA Kings Iceland, allowing them to kick off their 2025-26 season in a state-of-the-art facility that has a rich history in the sport.
Los Angeles Kings and ASEC: A Shared Vision
The Los Angeles Kings, a prominent franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL), have always been committed to promoting the game of hockey in Southern California. According to LA Kings President Luc Robitaille, welcoming LMU hockey into their "partnership family" represents a significant step forward for both organizations. The Kings have always prioritized community engagement and are thrilled to support the development of a top-tier ice hockey program at LMU.
Behind this collaboration, the ASEC plays a crucial role as it manages some of the finest recreational sports facilities across the United States. Their mission aligns perfectly with the Kings’ vision: to amplify local sports programs and bring more fans to the arena. Brad Berman, President and COO of ASEC, expressed excitement about partnering with LMU to propel their program’s growth while increasing community engagement through hockey.
A Historic Venue for New Beginnings
LA Kings Iceland holds a unique place in the hockey world. Built on the legacy of the Zamboni’s invention back in 1949, the venue now boasts state-of-the-art upgrades under ASEC and King’s ownership. According to Tyler Goeckner-Zoeller, General Manager and Head Coach of LMU’s hockey program, aligning the team with ASEC and utilizing LA Kings Iceland was essential for LMU Hockey’s strategic growth plan. The superior ice quality and experienced management of the facility stand as key advantages in elevating the men’s ice hockey program.
This partnership traditionally reflects a commitment to developing future athletes and enhancing their training conditions. LMU’s head coach believes that having access to a world-class practice facility is vital for attracting aspiring players while providing current athletes with the best opportunities to refine their skills.
Benefits to the LMU Community
The collaboration with the Kings and ASEC comes as a major boost for LMU’s hockey program, which has a rich history reaching back to 1930. Although the current program began just 20 years ago, it has expanded significantly, growing from one team to three. This includes both men’s and women’s collegiate hockey teams, marking a notable achievement for the institution, especially as it is the first women’s collegiate hockey program in California.
The partnership will also enhance the visibility of LMU hockey, enabling the Lions to host most of their home games at the newly upgraded LA Kings Iceland. In addition, they will continue to play select games at the LA Kings’ Toyota Sports Performance Center in El Segundo, further strengthening their ties with a storied franchise.
The Next Chapter in LA Hockey
As the Kings and ASEC are excited about their partnership with LMU, they see it as a mutually beneficial arrangement that can attract more families, players, and fans to the sport of hockey. This collaboration is more than just a relocation of a collegiate sports team; it symbolizes the ongoing growth of hockey in Southern California, a region that has become increasingly passionate about the sport over the years.
Hockey enthusiasts can expect a revitalized focus on community events and tournaments, fostering a thriving hockey culture in the region. The partnership with LMU allows the Kings and ASEC to nurture the next generation of hockey talent and create future fans, which ultimately strengthens the fabric of local sports.
Investing in the Future of Hockey
The commitment from both the Kings and ASEC to elevate LMU’s hockey program underscores the importance of investing in youth and collegiate sports. As scalable, inclusive sports programs take shape in collaboration with established teams, it fosters an environment of excellence and opportunity for players at all levels.
In addition, both organizations plan to capitalize on joint promotions to boost engagement and attendance at Lion’s games. This partnership is a step toward carving out a niche for collegiate hockey in a region predominantly known for its focus on professional sports.
Final Thoughts
With the recent partnership between the Los Angeles Kings, ASEC, and Loyola Marymount University, the landscape of collegiate ice hockey in Southern California stands to flourish. This collaboration not only promises to enhance the LMU hockey program but also offers exciting prospects for community involvement and sports culture. As LMU’s Men’s Ice Hockey team gears up for its new chapter at LA Kings Iceland, hockey fans can look forward to thrilling games and the development of homegrown talent in the years to come.
For more updates and schedules, fans can explore official websites, including LMU Ice Hockey’s dedicated page, ASEC’s site, and LA Kings Iceland as they embark on this new adventure in hockey. The excitement is palpable, and the community is ready to rally behind the Lions as they take their place in the echelon of Southern California sports.
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