On a typical December Thursday, Ball Arena was packed for the Colorado Avalanche’s game against the Utah Hockey Club, something that is not unusual for the Utah HC beat reporters. The Delta Center has sold out every game so far, though the limited-view seats aren’t always opened. However, upon reflecting on the game, it’s remarkable that Colorado fans continue to fill the arena despite the Avalanche having a subpar season. The team is struggling to maintain a wild-card spot, which is uncharacteristic given the deep playoff runs and Stanley Cup championship in 2022. Yet, fans continue to show up because hockey is deeply ingrained in Colorado’s culture.
Colorado boasts 15,000 youth hockey players, 307 high school hockey programs, and 48 full-time ice rinks. Avalanche merchandise is widespread, and locals often engage in detailed discussions about the team. In comparison, Utah has only 5,000 youth players, 60 high school programs, and 16 full-time rinks. While Utah HC merchandise is still in its infancy, the presence of team apparel and growing knowledge about the franchise in Salt Lake City is impressive.
The Utah HC’s “Hockey 101” initiative is a step in the right direction, providing children with the equipment and instruction needed to start playing hockey. They also distribute tickets to schools and other programs, allowing kids to experience NHL games firsthand. Additionally, the team hosts community events to help the public familiarize themselves with the players. This initiative is similar to programs run by the Avalanche, such as “Learn to Play,” which has helped foster youth interest in hockey for years.
The Colorado Avalanche, originally the Quebec Nordiques, moved to Denver in the 1995-96 season. Their immediate success, winning the Stanley Cup in their first year, has played a significant role in the team’s long-standing popularity. Although Utah HC is not expected to win the Cup in its inaugural season, the Avalanche’s early triumphs gave them a boost that Utah could benefit from as well. If the team struggles to make the playoffs over its first decade, it could face difficulties in sustaining fan interest and selling tickets.
Colorado also has three NCAA Division I hockey programs, including the highly successful Denver University. In contrast, Utah currently lacks any NCAA hockey programs, though a few teams compete at the lower ACHA level. There are hopes within the University of Utah to eventually take their program to the NCAA level, though this process has yet to begin. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman stated that the league has not yet considered expanding into Utah in this regard.
Looking ahead, Utah could look to Colorado as a model for where its hockey scene might be in 30 years. Both states share similar climates and landscapes, and with Utah’s rapid population growth, it could soon rival Colorado in size. If Utah continues to expand ice rinks, gains NCAA programs, and experiences success in the NHL playoffs, the future of Utah hockey looks bright, with the potential for sold-out games for years to come.
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