As part of this collaboration, ProSkate staff will oversee the Chiefs Tier II (Co-ed) and Princeton Tiger Lilies (Girls) travel hockey programs, operating across both ProSkate and the new East Brunswick facility.

In addition, we will be expanding hockey development at the East Brunswick Ice Arena through a wide range of introductory, recreational, and adult programs designed to grow the sport and serve players of all ages and skill levels.

We are also excited to share that we will be partnering with the New Jersey Devils to offer Learn to Play Hockey programs at the East Brunswick Ice Arena. A registration link for the first two New Jersey Devils Learn to Play sessions beginning this February at the East Brunswick Ice Arena can be found below:
Register Here for Devils Learn to Play

ProSkate Programming at the East Brunswick Rink will include:

• Mercer Chiefs and Princeton Tiger Lilies travel hockey programs
• Try Hockey for Free programs for all ages
• Girls Try Hockey for Free
• Learn To Play Hockey
• Jr Chiefs in house Hockey program (games and practices)
• Foundry Adult Hockey
• Adult Hockey Leagues
• Hard Edge Hockey Spring Programming (clinics, practices and tournament options)
• Hard Edge Hockey 3v3 clinics
• Hard Edge Hockey and VSK clinics
• Summer camps
• Spring Middle School and Spring High School leagues
• Showcases and Tournaments through the THF, TGHF, AHF, AGHF and NGHL leagues

“We are looking forward to helping draw the surrounding community to the East Brunswick Ice Arena and provide an important part of the revitalization project for this part of East Brunswick Township.  Although we will be providing opportunities for existing hockey players in our youth travel, youth recreational and adult programming, our main goal is to grow hockey with local families”, said Tim Chase, Director of Hockey at ProSkate and GM of the Mercer Chiefs Tier II and Princeton Tiger Lilies Tier I & II Girls Program.

Visit our ProSkate website for more details at www.proskatenj.com

Full story – https://www.tapinto.net/towns/east-brunswick/sections/government/articles/east-brunswick-township-announces-black-bear-sports-group-as-hockey-programming-partner-for-the-east-brunswick-ice-arena

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Bethesda, MD, Dec. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Black Bear Sports Group, the premier owner and operator of ice arenas and hockey leagues across the U.S., announces a 25% registration discount available to veterans, military personnel and first responders signing up for Foundry Adult Hockey’s “Get In The Game” (GITG) beginner program and the Novice Draft League.

Foundry Adult Hockey, part of the Black Bear Sports Group network, offers adults 18+ a structured pathway into the sport through its national learn-to-play and novice league programs. “Get In The Game” provides new players with foundational skills and on-ice instruction, while the Novice Draft League gives GITG graduates and other beginners the chance to experience organized, competitive play in a supportive environment.

“Veterans, members of the military, and first responders know what it means to work together, show up for others and rely on the people next to them,” said Murry N. Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear Sports Group. “Hockey offers that same sense of teamwork and shared purpose, and we want more adults to feel welcome trying the sport for the first time.”

The discount is intended to expand access across participating Black Bear arenas and strengthen opportunities for adults returning to civilian life or seeking new community connections. For many veterans, team-based sports offer a familiar sense of camaraderie, structure and collective accomplishment that mirrors aspects of their service experience. Eligible participants can activate the discount by presenting verification to arena staff before the start of their first session, including a valid veteran ID, military ID, or first responder credentials.

Read the full story here – https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/12/04/3199697/0/en/Black-Bear-Sports-Group-Offers-25-Foundry-Adult-Hockey-Registration-Discount-for-Veterans-Military-Personnel-and-First-Responders.html

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Bethesda, MD, December 2, 2025 — Black Bear Sports Group, the premier owner and operator of ice arenas and hockey leagues across the U.S., announced the selection of dozens of recipients for the annual Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation scholarship program. The initiative provides tuition support to families across Black Bear’s national network and helps ensure that young athletes can continue participating in a sport that has become increasingly expensive for many communities. This year’s awards bring the Foundation’s cumulative scholarship contributions to more than $250,000 since its launch.

This year’s recipients represent a wide range of youth hockey associations, development programs, and competitive teams that train and compete at Black Bear facilities across the country. The Foundation has expanded each season as part of Black Bear’s work to strengthen
youth hockey’s future and create pathways for players at every level.

“Families invest significant time and energy into youth hockey, and our goal is to support that commitment by reducing some of the financial strain that many experience,” said Murry N. Gunty, Founder and CEO of Black Bear Sports Group. “We are grateful for the opportunity to help young players stay on the ice and continue developing within the communities we are
proud to serve.”

Through its national network of ice arenas, leagues, tournaments, and training programs, Black Bear Sports Group invests in the infrastructure that keeps hockey sustainable and accessible for families. This year’s Youth Hockey Foundation scholarship awards support that work by helping players stay active in their home programs and supporting communities across multiple states.

“The Foundation was created because we believe that access and affordability remain essential to the long-term health of the sport,” added Gunty.
Black Bear Youth Hockey Foundation 2025 Scholarship Recipients

• Michael Belanger, Carlsbad United, Oceanside, CA
• Oliver Bench, Birdville Hockey Club, Fort Worth, TX
• Karter Brightbill, Palmyra Black Knights, Annville, PA
• Kooper Brightbill, Palmyra Black Knights, Annville, PA
• Kolby Brightbill, Palmyra Black Knights, Annville, PA
• Abigail Burokas, Lovell Academy U14, Schaumburg, IL
• Matthew Cramer, Junior Phantoms U12, New Middleton, OH
• Michael Edelstein, Senators 14U McDavid, Croydon, PA
• Jan Eschler, Plano West Hockey Club, Dallas, TX
• Joel Escobar, Junior Black Bears, Mount Airy, MD
• Devon Goosen, Palm Beach Typhoons, Plantation, FL
• Drew Groft, Palmyra Black Knights 15U, Columbia, PA
• Jordan Hamborsky, Mon Valley Thunder 14U/Connellsville Falcons, Uniontown, PA
• Rhiannon Husted, LTS Snider, Philadelphia, PA
• Ara Iandskroner, Pee Wee, Madison, WI
• Nathaniel Masty, Mount Clemens Metro Jr Jets, Midget/JV Prep, Ira, MI
• Theodore Masty, Mount Clemens Metro Jr Jets, 14U Bantam House, Ira, MI
• Joshua Masty, Mount Clemens Metro Jr Jets 12U PeeWee House, Ira, MI
• Emily McDonnell, 14A York Devils, York, PA
• Everett Miller, Youngstown Phantoms 12u, Youngstown, OH
• Cayden Miller, Lehigh Valley Phantoms Youth, South Abington, PA
• Eitan Mishiyev, Mercer Chiefs U16A Black, Manalapan Twp., NJ
• Charleigh Montana, Jaguars 12U Lemieux & Monarchs 12U, West Deptford, NJ
• Sam O’Hearn, Grand Traverse Hockey Association, Bantam AA, Traverse City, MI
• Ethan Peavy, Don Mills Flyers AAA, Burbank, CA
• Yahor Putau, Flyers Elite AAA, Bensalem, PA
• Bennett Redding, Fresno Jr Monsters 8u Travel, Hanford, CA
• Ares Renner, Mites Dev, Longmeadow, MA
• Annelise Satake, Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Girls 12U Gold and Morgantown (WV) Blades 12U Coed and Middle School Scholastic Team 13U Coed, Morgantown, WV
• Finnley Satake, Morgantown Blades 10UAA Coed (WV) and Johnstown Redwings 10U AAA Coed (PA), Morgantown, WV
• Veronica Scansaroli, Princeton Tiger Lillies AA, Bridgewater, NJ
• Finn Swadley, Lansing Hockey Club – Bantam AA 14U, DeWitt, MI
• Chyna Taylor, GirlsTier 1 16U, Louisville, KY
• Charlee Tschida, Boulder hockey club lady rough riders 12 AA, Westminster, CO
• Richard Volgraf Jr., Royal AA, Newtown, PA
• Haydn Warfel, Huskies Hockey Club – Peewee Major, Plainfield, IL
• Bennett Wilson, 12U AA, Lutz, FL
• Brayden Wilson, 10U A, Lutz, FL

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 http://www.blackbearsportsgroup.com/.

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/12/02/3198166/0/en/Black-Bear-Sports-Group-Announces-Annual-Scholarship-Awards-Supporting-Youth-Players-Across-Its-National-Hockey-Network.html

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However, in October, Black Bear Sports Group officially acquired the arena, a move local ice sports leaders say will help stabilize and grow hockey, figure skating, and curling in the region. Groups including the Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association (KOHA), Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association (GKSA), Kalamazoo Curling Club, South Central High School Hockey League (SCHSHL), and local businesses like Athletic Mentors and Hockey Services Source for Hockey, have expressed optimism about the future under the new ownership. Black Bear Sports Group currently owns and operates more than 40 ice arenas across the country.

Read the full story here – https://sportseventsmediagroup.com/kalamazoo-ice-sports-groups-unite-to-support-new-wings-west-arena-ownership-launch-feasibility-study-for-future-growth/

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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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