Stockton Heat show off facility upgrades

Photo by Jack Lima

STOCKTON, Calif. – The Stockton Heat unveiled the recent upgrades to the Stockton Arena before about 200 fans on Friday evening. Calgary Flames President Brian Burke, Assistant General Manager Brad Pascall, Heat Head Coach Ryan Huska and Heat General Manager Dave Piecuch also addressed the fans, providing answers to their questions.

Brad Pascall, Assistant General Manager of the Calgary Flames-Photo by Jack Lima

Photo by Jack Lima

The Heat is part of the newly created Pacific Division, which will play only 68 games for the season, as opposed to the rest of the AHL teams that will play 76.

“Our focus is to develop the players,” said Burke. “Last year of 42 players to wear the jersey, fifteen were called up to play with the NHL.”

Brian Burke, Calgary Flames President -Photo by Jack Lima

Burke went on to tell fans what they could expect for the upcoming season.

“We are committed to up-tempo, fast style of play. We are determined to entertain. We are physical, fast and move the puck. In fact, I think we are the best mobile group in terms of style. I’m proud and pleased to be here.”

Coach Ryan Huska – Photo by Jack Lima

Burke went on to assure the fans that the Heat is in Stockton for the long haul. The Calgary management has been networking with local corporations and the Stockton Police Department, developing long-lasting relationships. Burke assured the fans that their organization wants to be integrated in the community.

212 is the boiling point of water in fahrenheit- Photo by Jack Lima

The Flames have invested over $250,000 in upgrades to the team dressing room, weight and training area and the coaches’ offices.

“The previous spaces were small, crowded and dark. We added more lighting and opened the space up making it more spacious, adding a lounge area as well,” said Burke during the tours.

Dressing room -Photo by Jack Lima

Another great opportunity for fans to look forward to was recently announced as well. The Heat will face the Bakersfield Condors at California’s first ever minor league outdoor hockey game, coordinated by the Golden State Hockey Rush. The event will be December 18 at Sacramento’s Raley Field.

Stationary bikes in the weight and training room – Photo by Jack Lima

Finally, Huska spoke with fans about the recent signing of three more players to AHL contracts, bringing the total to seven to date.

The Heat training camp starts September 27, and there are two pre-season games to look forward to. The season opener is on October 10 against the Rockford Icehogs (Chicago Blackhawks affiliate).