Tier-I USHL Franchise to Anchor New Sports and Entertainment Arena
Simi Valley is set to become a premier sports and entertainment hub in Southern California following the United States Hockey League (USHL) announcement selecting the city as one of six targeted West Coast expansion markets. Targeted to drop the puck for the 2027–28 season, the new franchise is expected to bring elite Tier-I junior hockey to Ventura County while serving as the primary anchor for a major sports and commercial venue development.
A Regional Economic and Commercial Catalyst
The arrival of a USHL franchise introduces significant commercial and economic potential for local businesses, commercial real estate, and hospitality sectors. Beyond hosting 30+ home games per season, the proposed multi-purpose arena is envisioned as a regional venue capable of hosting concerts, community gatherings, and entertainment events.
Key business and operational details outlined by local officials include:
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Ownership Group: The franchise will be owned and operated by Leorjay Sports.
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Public-Private Partnership: Simi Valley Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay indicated that venue development and construction costs will involve a shared public-private funding approach between the city and ownership.
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Development Timeline: Arena construction is expected to take between 18 and 24 months once a final site within Simi Valley is secured. The team and city are evaluating intermediate local venues to host games during initial play if arena construction extends past the 2027 launch window.
“Simi Valley is honored to be identified in this exciting expansion effort. This vision represents more than a hockey franchise. It has the potential to create a new destination for sports, entertainment, and tourism in the region,” stated Simi Valley Mayor Dee Dee Cavanaugh.
Hall of Fame Backing and Local Hockey Roots
The USHL’s westward expansion—supported by the National Hockey League (NHL) and USA Hockey—is spearheaded by NHL Hall of Famers Luc Robitaille (President of the Los Angeles Kings), Joe Sakic, and Teemu Selänne.
As the nation’s only Tier-I junior hockey league, the USHL serves as a direct pipeline to NCAA Division I and NHL careers, with over 50% of Division I men’s players and nearly 25% of active NHL rosters featuring league alumni.
Simi Valley’s selection builds on more than three decades of grassroots ice sports growth established by local institutions like the Simi Valley Iceoplex. The local development pathway has already produced top-tier talent, including Thousand Oaks native and LA Kings forward Trevor Moore, who grew up skating on Simi Valley ice before advancing through the USHL to the NHL.
What’s Next for Simi Business Owners?
With site selection and municipal discussions underway, the upcoming venue development promises new opportunities for local vendors, corporate sponsorships, retail development, and seasonal hospitality growth. Additional details regarding arena location, construction milestones, branding, and commercial partnerships are scheduled to be released in the coming months as stakeholder planning progresses.
Watch the official USHL West Coast Expansion Press Release Video to learn more about how league leadership and NHL partners are bringing Tier-I junior hockey to California.
This video provides direct insight into the USHL’s strategic vision and leadership backing behind the West Coast expansion initiative.
