Hockeyville USA watch party planned
A community “watch party” will be held Saturday at Rostraver Ice Garden to learn the winner of the 2017 Kraft Hockeyville competition.
The RostraverTownship ice rink is one of two national finalists for $150,000 in upgrades in the search for “America’s most passionate hockey community.” Hockey fans and community members voted online, via text and on Twitter to determine the winning facility, which will also have the opportunity to host an National Hockey League preseason game.
Doors open at 1:30 p.m. at the Ice Garden, 101 Gallitin Road, Belle Vernon.
Members of California University’s ACHA and NCHA ice hockey teams, who play their games at the rink, will be at the event, including Chris Kostick, the Cal U. student who nominated the Rostraver rink for the contest.
Popular local band Brother Jeep from Across the Creek will entertain while fans enjoy free hot dogs and soft drinks. Kids can have their photos taken with the Zamboni or play in a bounce house until the results are announced during the 3 p.m. NHL playoff game broadcast on NBC-TV.
An NBC television crew is expected to stop at the arena for a “live look” at the event, so fans are encouraged to wear Cal U. gear or show support for their local hockey clubs. The Ice Garden also is home to the Mon Valley Thunder youth hockey program and a number of local high school programs.