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Club hockey to host nationals in 2001

The Tucson Convention Center, home to the UA Icecats club hockey team, has been chosen for the site of the 2001 American Collegiate Hockey Association national championship. The University of Arizona was last chosen to host this tournament back in 1995.

It had been rumored that the Icecats would host this year's tournament, but instead it was awarded to Minot State (N.D.).

Josh Brandwene, the President of the ACHA, said that the selection process takes into account a number of items when considering a bid.

The Icecats are known throughout the country as one of the top draws in U.S. collegiate hockey, drawing 80,000 to 100,000 fans a season.

"UA's fan base definitely helped their bid," Brandwene said.

'The Madhouse on Main Street', as it is commonly referred to, has been the home of the Icecats for the last 17 seasons.

Last season the Icecats averaged just over 4,000 fans a game, the third largest sports draw at the UA.

Brandwene believes having the tournament in Arizona gives the ACHA a good balance in location.

"We really try to make the tournament a national affair, not in the east or the west every year. Having it in Arizona will help us achieve that," he said.

Icecats head coach Leo Golembiewski said hosting a tournament does not change his preparations for the season.

The Icecats have their entire first line returning for this upcoming season after graduating only two seniors, co-captain Bob Majka and forward Brian Meehan

"Our team will be very young this season. Along with the recruits we picked up we should be able to make up for the loss of Brian and Majka," said Golembiewski.

Practice for the Icecats begins the third week of September, with the first game coming on Oct. 22 with the opponent still to be determined.