ECHL All-Star Game Coming to Jacksonville in 2021

The ECHL announced this past weekend that it has chosen Jacksonville to host its 2021 All-Star Classic, in conjunction with its local franchise, the Jacksonville Icemen.

The game is set to take place at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena on Monday, January 18, 2021, along with the league’s hall of fame induction ceremony and a fan festival. The game is sponsored by hockey apparel brand Warrior.

 “The ECHL Board of Governors is proud to announce unanimous support to bring the All-Star Classic and its festivities to Jacksonville,” said ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin. “In three seasons, Jacksonville has become one of the top organizations in the ECHL and certainly deserves the opportunity to be the host of this event.”

The ECHL is part of the NHL’s minor-league system; 670 players from the league have gone on to play in the NHL. According to a press release from the league, its all-star game “traditionally generates over $1 million in economic impact” for its host city and has featured 68 future NHL players over the years.

Jacksonville has previously hosted minor-league basketball (ABA) and baseball (Southern League) all-star games, and now it will bring in another minor-league all-star game just three years after the Icemen relocated to Jax.

“We thank the ECHL for recognizing the tremendous support our fans have given us,” said Bob Ohrablo, president of the Icemen. “It is truly an honor to host this event.  We would also like to thank the continued support of Mayor Curry, the City of Jacksonville, and our arena’s management team, ASM.”

In addition to hosting the game, a portion of the proceeds from the game will be donated to Kids Hope Alliance, the city’s youth services program.

Tickets for the game will be available at a later date.