STAFF REPORTS
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The NCAA announced yesterday that Buffalo State and the State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) have been awarded the bid to host the 2020 NCAA Division III Men’s Ice Hockey Frozen Four at HarborCenter in Buffalo on March 27-28.
“Buffalo State is thrilled to be a part of this venture to be able to showcase the best of Division III men’s hockey in a world class facility in downtown Buffalo,” said Buffalo State director of athletics Jerry Boyes. “This is also a great opportunity to show off our thriving region to the Division III hockey community.”
Pegula Sports and Entertainment played a pivitol role in helping to bring this championship to Buffalo.
“Officials from the NCAA observed the HarborCenter facilities during a site survey in January and immediately stated their desire to bring this event to Buffalo,” said Michael Gilbert, Buffalo Sabres vice president of administration and HarborCenter’s general manager. “That’s what the Pegulas had in mind when constructing this complex, and yesterday’s announcement is further proof of their magnificent effect on our community. Together with Buffalo State and the SUNYAC, our staff is eager to put on another first-class event that will draw more visitors to our great city.”
The city of Buffalo looks forward to displaying recent improvements to the area and sharing its culture with fans.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to have the country’s best Division III hockey teams converge on Buffalo in 2020,” Visit Buffalo Niagara and Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission President and CEO Patrick Kaler said. “When the teams and visitors arrive, they will find a dramatically revitalized city and region featuring new and improved athletic facilities, a transformed waterfront and an influx of new hotels, restaurants and other amenities. This championship will provide a big boost to our hotels and restaurants during a traditionally quieter time of year and further cement our reputation as a premier city for college and amateur athletics.”
The SUNYAC is pleased to have the opportunity to be a part of the national championship experience for the student-athletes.
“As one of the premier men’s ice hockey conferences in Division III, the SUNYAC is excited to partner with Buffalo State in bringing the NCAA Division III Men’s Ice Hockey Frozen Four to Western New York,” said SUNYAC Commissioner Tom Di Camillo. “Ice hockey is part of the fabric and culture of New York State and each year the SUNYAC fields some of the best Division III programs in the country. This will give the SUNYAC an opportunity to showcase its programs and the conference as a whole.”
The NCAA received more than 3,000 bid submissions from NCAA member schools, conferences, sports commissions and cities vying to host predetermined rounds for 84 of the NCAA’s 90 championships. A total of 613 sites were awarded for this cycle.
Criteria for selecting the host sites included creating what will be an exceptional experience for the student-athletes, along with adherence to NCAA bid specifications. Specifications can include, but are not limited to, providing optimal facilities; ease of travel to the location and ample lodging; and adherence to NCAA principles, which include providing an atmosphere that is safe and respects the dignity of all attendees.
