The 60-year-old ice hockey arena, located in Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh, is now named the cfsbank Event Center and it’s the rink where Cooley developed his love for the game.

Officials at the arena held “Logan Cooley Night” on Aug. 21 and honored the rising NHL star, who gave back to the current generation of players at the same rink where he discovered his passion for hockey.

“This is where it all started,” Cooley said. “This is where I fell in love with the game and knew I wanted to do something special with it.”

See the full story here – https://www.usahockey.com/news_article/show/1346701

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Black Bear Sports Group, which owns and operates dozens of ice arenas across the country, said in a Tuesday release that one of its affiliates is taking over operations of Wings West.

“Wings West has long been a vibrant hub for the local ice sports community,” Black Bear Founder an CEO Murry N. Gunty said in a statement. “We’re proud to protect that legacy while making the investments needed to strengthen its future. Our goal is to make sure every skater, coach, and fan in Kalamazoo has a high-quality place to call home.”

Full story here: https://www.woodtv.com/news/kalamazoo-county/wings-west-ice-rink-complex-near-kalamazoo-is-being-sold/amp/

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Kalamazoo, MI, October 7, 2025 – An affiliate of Black Bear Sports Group, the premier owner and operator of ice arenas and hockey leagues across the U.S., is taking over operations of Wings West ice facility in Kalamazoo, ensuring local hockey players and figure skaters can retain their home for training and competition. The two sheet ice facility, previously operated by Stadium Management Corporation (SMC), was forced to close on September 12, 2025 due to a refrigeration system failure. Black Bear Sports Group will provide the resources needed to address critical equipment repairs and replacements so the ice facility can fully reopen ahead of the 2026–27 season.

“Wings West has long been a vibrant hub for the local ice sports community,” said Murry N. Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear Sports Group. “We’re proud to protect that legacy while making the investments needed to strengthen its future. Our goal is to make sure every skater, coach, and fan in Kalamazoo has a high-quality place to call home.”

In addition to restoring operations, Black Bear has plans to support Wings West with full integration of its growth of the game initiatives, programs, leagues, tournaments, player ascension, events, on-line uniform and apparel stores. The ice facility will also be connected to
Black Bear TV, the company’s dedicated streaming platform that increases visibility for teams and creates exposure opportunities for players on the path to collegiate or professional careers. “SMC is thrilled to see Wings West in the capable hands of Black Bear Sports Group, who are known for delivering top-tier experiences for athletes and fans alike,” said Brad VandenBerg, Managing Director of Stadium Management Corporation. “It has been our pleasure serving the ice sports community in Kalamazoo over the years, and we’re excited to see the ice facility’s next chapter unfold.”

Black Bear Sports Group specializes in preserving ice arenas that serve as community cornerstones, stepping in where mechanical failures or economic challenges threaten program continuity. Black Bear has successfully revitalized arenas across the country by combining professional management expertise with player development pathways built through its leagues.

About Black Bear Sports Group

Founded in 2015 by lifelong hockey enthusiasts, Black Bear Sports Group is a premier owner and operator of ice arenas and youth hockey leagues across the United States. Dedicated to strengthening hockey communities and expanding access to the sport, Black Bear manages dozens of rinks, teams, and leagues, including the Atlantic Hockey Federation, the Atlantic Girls Hockey Federation, and the Tier 1 Hockey Federation. Black Bear also offers elite training programs, tournaments, and Black Bear TV, a dedicated streaming platform that increases visibility for athletes. By preserving community rinks and creating development opportunities, Black Bear ensures that hockey and other ice sports remain accessible, competitive, and positioned for long-term success. For more information, visit www.blackbearsportsgroup.com.

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“LOGAN COOLEY NIGHT”

Belle Vernon, PA – Thursday, August 21 was “Logan Cooley Night” at cfsbank Event Center as the Mon Valley Thunder Youth Hockey Club paid tribute to Logan Cooley who now plays in the National Hockey League for the Utah Mammoth. Logan got his start at the cfsbank Event Center in the inaugural season of Sidney Crosby’s Little Penguins Learn to Play Program and then played his youth hockey with the Mon Valley Thunder Youth Hockey Club. 

“Logan’s story is amazing — we could not be any prouder that he made it to the highest level in our sport, the National Hockey League ” said Craig Albert, Mon Valley Thunder Youth Hockey Club Director. “It’s proof that dreams can start right here on our ice. Our passion is to introduce new players to the sport of hockey and establish a lifelong love for the game. That’s where the journey begins — one first step, one first glide, one first goal.”

Cooley was on the ice for a skills session with some of the Mon Valley Thunder Youth Hockey Club young skaters from 7:00-7:40pm we then held a tribute and ceremony to unveil a banner for him. During the ceremony we hosted Matt Herr, Senior Director of Community Development and Industry Growth at the National Hockey League. “Exciting night in Pittsburgh to have Logan Cooley return to where it all started for him in the NHL/NHLPA Little Penguins program. The Learn to Play program has been a catalyst for many years allowing children between the ages of 5-9 to begin their hockey journey. I want to thank Logan and his family for being here tonight, sharing his journey from LTP in Pittsburgh to the National Hockey League. I would also like to thank all the coaches, parents, players, rink operators, USA hockey associations that make this program possible around the country.” said Matt Herr. Post the ceremony Cooley was available for photos and autographs during a free public skate session.

“Providing opportunities for boys and girls ages 4 to 9 to learn the game of hockey is our role in the Mon Valley Community” said Frank Lopesti, Hockey Operations Manager at cfsbank Event Center. “Whether you’re stepping onto the ice for the very first time or dreaming of scoring your first goal, we’ve got the path at cfsbank Event Center, and now a child can start their hockey journey for FREE including all of the equipment to use by signing up for Take a Shot at Hockey (TASH) for boys and girls ages 4-9.”

About Logan Cooley: Logan Cooley is an American professional ice hockey center for the Utah Mammoth of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was drafted third overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2022 NHL entry draft.

About TASH: A FREE 8-week program offered to youth boys and girls (ages 4-9) where gear is available to use during the session. This program is open to first time skaters/players. Following the program participants will be prepared for the next step of the journey, Little Penguins Learn to Play Hockey. To learn more, go to https://www.cfsbankeventcenter.com/programs/take-a-shot-at-hockey

About Little Penguins: Sidney Crosby’s Little Penguins Learn to Play Hockey is an introductory program for children ages 5 to 9 to learn the fundamental skills of hockey in a fun and safe environment. The program consists of eight to ten sessions of on-ice instruction by certified coaches. To learn more go to https://www.nhl.com/penguins/community/learn-to-play

About Mon Valley Thunder: Mon Valley Youth Hockey Association provides quality hockey programs to develop the skills of young players in Western Pennsylvania. Located in the Mon Valley and South Hills which is located in close proximity to Pittsburgh. Our home ice is located at cfsbank Event Center in Belle Vernon. MVYHA has been a leader of the explosive growth of youth hockey. Our Region is one which is quickly becoming known for players and teams that can compete and succeed. To learn more go to https://www.cfsbankeventcenter.com/club-information

About cfsbank Event Center – cfsbank Event Center, owned by Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. is a multi-purpose facility located in Belle Vernon, a suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania also known as the Mon Valley.  The arena measures 65,000 square feet and includes one NHL-sized ice rink that is converted to a dry floor event center in the spring and summer that is host to many alternative events, shows and exhibits. The facility has multiple banquet spaces/ party rooms and a catering kitchen as well as a full-service sports pub, Bubba’s Kitchen & Bar and concessions stand, Bubba’s Express. The arena provides the community with various ice skating and hockey programs, regular public skating sessions and birthday parties.

About Black Bear Sports Group –  Black Bear Sports Group is dedicated to strengthening hockey communities and expanding access to the sport at all levels. Founded in 2015 by lifelong hockey supporters, we provide a home for players, families, and fans by operating ice rinks, managing youth and junior hockey leagues, and creating development opportunities for athletes. We believe rinks are more than just buildings—they’re the heart of the hockey community. Through thoughtful rink management, structured competition, and a commitment to player growth, we ensure that the game remains accessible, competitive, and positioned for long-term success. Whether it’s keeping rinks open, providing high-quality leagues, or offering direct pathways for advancement, our focus is always on supporting the sport and all those who share our love of the game. Beyond hockey, our rinks also serve as hubs for figure skating and other ice sports, ensuring that all skaters have a place to train, compete, and enjoy time on the ice.

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“We are thrilled to be partnered with BIGGBY® COFFEE and are excited to extend the brand in the Michigan market by adding BIGGBY® COFFEE Ice Cube- Chelsea to the existing line up of ice arenas, including BIGGBY® COFFEE Ice Cube- Ann Arbor , BIGGBY® COFFEE Ice Cube- East Lansing and BIGGBY® COFFEE Ice Cube- Brighton , “ said Murry N. Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear.

“We are proud of the work we are doing with Black Bear Sports Group to support the youth hockey clubs as part of the BIGGBY® COFFEE Hockey Club ecosystem,” said Mike McFall, Co-Founder and CEO of BIGGBY® COFFEE.  “What makes this partnership powerful is the way we are all working together to find new and better ways to grow the game of hockey in Michigan. We look forward to some big announcements in the future!”

About BIGGBY® COFFEE – BIGGBY® COFFEE, headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan, is a national coffee franchise with over
440 locations across 13 states. Since opening its first store in 1995, BIGGBY® has remained 100% franchise-owned and operates under a fully franchised business model designed to help local entrepreneurs grow successful, community-minded businesses.
The company is guided by a people-first philosophy and a commitment to values-aligned growth — supporting franchise owners and baristas, creating positive experiences for guests, and partnering with coffee producers who treat people well, respect the environment, and invest in their communities.

In 2024, BIGGBY® introduced a refined visual identity anchored by the tagline BIGGBY® Makes it Better, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to consistent quality, human connection, and uplifting everyday interactions.

About Black Bear Sports Group, Inc. – Black Bear Sports Group is dedicated to strengthening hockey communities and expanding access to the sport at all levels. Founded in 2015 by lifelong hockey supporters, we provide a home for players, families, and fans by operating ice rinks, managing youth and junior hockey leagues, and creating development opportunities for athletes.
We believe rinks are more than just buildings—they’re the heart of the hockey community.

Through thoughtful rink management, structured competition, and a commitment to player growth, we ensure that the game remains accessible, competitive, and positioned for long-term success. Whether it’s keeping rinks open, providing high-quality leagues, or offering direct pathways for advancement, our focus is always on supporting the sport and all those who share our love of the game.

Beyond hockey, our rinks also serve as hubs for figure skating and other ice sports, ensuring that all skaters have a place to train, compete, and enjoy time on the ice.

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About The United States Premier Hockey League

Founded in 2012, the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) is the largest junior hockey organization in North America, with over 150 teams and more than 20,000 players aged 8-21. The League’s Junior Divisions include the tuition-free National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC), and the Premier and Elite Conferences. The USPHL has sent more than 10,000 players to college hockey, including over 4,600 to the NCAA, and 19 NCDC alumni have been selected in the NHL Draft.

https://usphl.com/usphl-black-bear-tv-packages-2025-26/

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EAST BRUNSWICK – The Township Council has selected an operator for its new municipal ice arena.

The Council approved a resolution at its June 9 meeting authorizing an agreement with Black Bear Corp., doing business as Pro Skate Arena, for the service.

“This is a big deal,” said Mayor Brad Cohen, adding it’s an economic driver to the township.

But, he said, the operator will not be getting preference on ice availability.

“That goes to the residents themselves,” Cohen said. “Any time the town isn’t using slots, that’s what will be made available to Black Bear.”

Construction of the arena behind Lowe’s on Route 18 and the new Legacy Place development off Tices Lane is expected to be completed by year’s end.

Pro Skate Arena, the sole vendor to submit a proposal, has signed a five-year contract, the mayor said. The company operates about 40 ice rinks in the region, including South Brunswick.

Black Bear’s ProSkate Ice Arena in the Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick is a 75-000-square-foot multipurpose sports facility housing one NHL-sized and one Olympic-sized rink, according to its website.

Council President Kevin McEvoy said he hopes Black Bear can attract the Rutgers men’s and women’s hockey to the arena.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/east-brunswick-taps-operator-municipal-085828755.html

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They are also taking over the Arctic Breakaway sports bar inside the arena, where they plan to keep the existing menu and staff while adding their own dishes. They also plan to install two Trackman golf simulators there. In about a year and a half, they have taken over several rink concessions stands, converting them into quick-serve eateries with “healthy” menu options, Matthew Kavanaugh said. “People don’t expect to find their favorite sandwich at a hockey rink,” he said. “It’s fun to flip the script on people.” The family has traveled so much for their son’s hockey games, “it’s to the point where we almost set up beds (at rinks) and changed our mailing address,” he joked. “I thought, how can we improve concessions to add an amenity to the rink,” he said. Most of the recipes are Teresa Kavanaugh’s creations. She teaches 7th and 8th grade science at Shelby Junior High School in Shelby Township. “She comes from an Italian family, so she very much loves to come up with new sandwich ideas,” Matthew Kavanaugh said. He had a hand in creating the concept as well. He had watch some viral videos online of people chopping up a bunch of ingredients and putting them on hoagie rolls. “I made them for my kids, and they loved it. They are picky eaters, so I thought, if my boys like this and it passed the kid test, maybe other people will like it,” he said. Founding Chop Detroit and CD Top Shelf is a new career path for him that allows him to spend more time with their children. He previously worked for a medical device company.

The “Italian Clapper” sandwich is their “top seller,” Kavanaugh said. The sandwich features capicola, salami, pepperoni, ham, lettuce, banana pepper, tomato, onion, deli sauce, Italian dressing and provolone cheese. The “Lamplighter,” with Italian beef, and the “Dirty Dangler,” with turkey, ham, and fried jalapeño chips, are also popular, he said. Their other locations include a Chop Detroit and CD Top Shelf at the Biggby Coffee Ice Cube — Brighton, formerly called the Kensington Valley Ice House. They also have locations at the Mount Clemens Ice Arena and the Hazel Park Ice Arena. “We have three other locations that we are evaluating now,” Kavanaugh said. He said “the five-year plan” is to expand to Ohio and Indiana and to franchise at some point. “The brand is getting more recognition, especially in the Michigan hockey and figure skating communities,” he said. The ultimate dream: to have a location inside Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2025/04/hockey-family-elevates-ann-arbor-ice-arenas-food-options.html

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“We’re thrilled to bring the Mounties’ tradition of excellence at the 12 and under levels to the Eastern Hockey Federation,” said Matthew Fawcett, Program Director of the Jr. Mounties. “Joining the EHF represents a great opportunity for our players to compete at the highest level. This is a proud moment for the program and the community.”

Black Bear Sports Group Director of Youth Hockey Patrick Choules expressed his excitement about the program’s future: “We’re building something truly special with the Jr. Mounties. This program will ensure our younger players grow into leaders on and off the ice.”

For more information about the Jr. Mounties youth program, upcoming tryouts, and other inquiries, contact Matthew Fawcett, mfawcett8@icloud.com and 401-474-2903.

About the Jr. Mounties Hockey Program

The Jr. Mounties hockey club is an elite program based in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. It plays out of Adelard Arena, home to the most storied high school hockey program in the country: the Mount Saint Charles Mounties. Over the past 50 years, the Mounties have established themselves as a powerhouse, claiming an incredible 26 consecutive Rhode Island state championships. Six years ago, the program took a bold step forward by creating the Mount Academy teams, which quickly succeeded at the U14 to U18 levels. The Jr. Mounties are proud to play in the Eastern Hockey Federation for the 2025-26 season, where they will face some of the best competition in the region. The program plans to field seven youth teams: Mite Futures, Mite AAA 7U, Mite AAA 8U, Squirt Minor 9U, Squirt Major 10U, PeeWee Minor 11U, and PeeWee Major 12U. Each team will participate in the league, with the goal of developing some of the best teams and hockey players in our region. For more information, visit jrmountieshockey.club.

About Adelard Arena

Opened in 1963, Adelard Arena is a historic facility in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, on Mount Saint Charles Academy’s campus. The arena is home to the 46-time State Champion high school hockey team at Mount Saint Charles and the National Powerhouse Academy teams, including the Jr. Mounties.

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