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Elite League delight at three-year NIC Playoff Finals deal

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The bmibaby Elite Ice Hockey League are delighted to announce that a fantastic three-year deal has been struck for the end of season Playoff Finals weekend to continue to be hosted in the National Ice Centre, Nottingham.

The NIC has played host to each of the previous four Elite League finals weekend and league Chairman Eamon Convery is delighted the event will stay in the Lace City. "I have always said we will listen to what the fans have to say and the general opinion is that Nottingham fits the bill perfectly," said Convery. He added, "The arena is right on the edge of the city centre among the shops, hotels, restaurants and lively bars all which are essential for an event like this. Last season the weekend went like clockwork, we have built up a very professional working relation with the NIC staff who know exactly what is required to stage the event. It means our event staff can concentrate all their attention to the hockey activities"

The playoff finals weekend is the showpiece event in the ice hockey calendar. Nottingham City Council is a supporting partner for the event and it is due to their commitment that the NIC will play host through to the 2009-10 finals. This seasons' jamboree weekend is set for April 5th and 6th with capacity crowds of close to seven thousand expected for the semi-finals on the Saturday and the Grand Final on the Sunday.

Mich Stevenson, Chairman of the National Ice Centre commented, "I'm absolutely thrilled that the playoff finals will be here again for the next three years. Fans from all over the country look forward to coming to Nottingham, and the colour and excitement they bring is very good for the city. The backing from the council for the event is a strong indication of the far-sightedness of the city elders."

The £42m National Ice Centre has been host to the playoff finals since the formation of the Elite League in 2003-04 and the City of Nottingham has embraced the event helping create the very special atmosphere which surrounds the showcase weekend.

Mr Stevenson added, "As well as the council supporting the event, I understand 'Experience Nottingham' is also getting fully involved in order to put on a big welcome for ice hockey supporters."

League Chairman Eamon Convery closed noting, "The city of Nottingham has taken ice hockey to its heart and I am delighted we will be back for the foreseeable future and perhaps beyond this initial magnificent three-year agreement."