Medibank Icehouse to host 2014 AIHL Finals Presented by Air Canada
Thursday, June 26, 2014 - Submitted by AIHL Press Release
For the fourth time in five seasons, the 2014 AIHL Finals presented by Air Canada will be held at the Medibank Icehouse in Melbourne on the weekend of August 30-31.
AIHL Commissioner, Robert Bannerman, said that the Icehouse was chosen to host the series due to its standing as Australia’s premier ice hockey stadium as well as the central location and success of previous Finals series’ in the Victorian capital.
“The Medibank Icehouse is a world class venue with world class amenities for fans, players, corporate entertainment, and filming essential for hosting our championship and growing exposure for the sport.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Air Canada again for the Finals series. Their brand is synonymous with ice hockey and they’re passionate about growing the sport locally.”
Icehouse general manager, Paul Keisler, said that his team was looking forward to hosting fans from across the country.
“We are honoured to be able to host the 2014 AIHL Finals presented by Air Canada,” Keisler said.
“The Medibank Icehouse has allocated stadium seating for up to 1,000 people. Weekend passes will be available again this year, meaning fans can comfortably enjoy the same seat for the entire weekend.”
However, Keisler said that there will be plenty of options for the weekend.
“For those who like the action up close there will be plenty of space to stand up by the glass,” Keisler said. “An additional bar will be added to the ground floor to ensure fans have access to concessions without queuing for long periods of time. This brings the number of food and beverage outlets to four, more than the regular season.”
Air Canada Australia and New Zealand general manager Paul McLean said that the company was pleased to be sponsoring the AIHL Finals for the second consecutive year.
"Aside from Hockey being Canada's favorite sport and the synergy of of our two brands, I am very impressed with the direction and the professionalism of the league," McLean said. "I hope to see the league grow over the coming years."
With the 2014 Finals to be showcased on Air Canada flights, McLean said it was positive way for the company to support and cross-promote the league to its customers.
"It is a unique opportunity to show the world that Australia has a high quality hockey league with passionate fans," McLean said. "We carry 35 million passengers annually to over 175 destinations worldwide, giving a portion of these passengers the opportunity to view the AIHL playoffs is a good way to promote the league but also a unique way to promote Australia as a destination."
Game times, a weekend agenda, and tickets will be available online from trybooking.com in the next fortnight.