Panorama City Ice Rink Closing: A Tough Moment for Players and Families

Community Rallying to Save Panorama City’s Ice Rink

A group of student athletes and their families gathered in Panorama City on Monday in a final attempt to preserve their beloved ice rink following its owners’ announcement of an impending closure. Parents and coaches expressed deep concern after learning that the LA Kings Valley Ice Center has been sold, with plans to shut down its largest rink—an action that jeopardizes the local youth hockey program.

Among the 200 players advocating for the rink’s continuation is 10-year-old Everly Corrington, who has been passionate about hockey since the age of three. As captain of the California Heat team, Everly emphasized the rink’s importance to the community. "Without our big ice, then we can’t have a home rink here for our families, and that will essentially either mean we need to relocate or our club will be no longer," said Kelly Stirzel, director of hockey for California Heat.

Stirzel further noted the limited availability of hockey rinks in the area, with Burbank being the closest alternative. She articulated the significant impact the rink has on the local community, emphasizing its role as a gathering place for families and young athletes. "This is a huge outlet for our community and huge outlet for our kids and our families to come together and be a part of something bigger than themselves," she stated.

The LA Kings, who maintain a branding agreement with the rink, are also seeking support from the professional team to persuade the new owners against the closure. NBC Los Angeles reached out to the general manager of the rink for comment but has not yet received a response.