The Utah Hockey Club captured significant attention during the NHL draft held in Las Vegas this June. The newest franchise in the league arrived with an impressive collection of draft picks, chose the son of a hockey hall-of-famer, and executed the most substantial trade over the weekend.
Additionally, they sold a considerable number of hats. The Utah version of the Fanatics on-stage draft hat was the first to completely sell out at the merchandise booth.
Smith Entertainment Group tackled various challenges when establishing a new NHL team in Utah, including branding, support staffing, ticket sales, venue upgrades, and facility enhancements, among others. During an introductory news conference in April, team owner Ryan Smith noted that the upcoming months would likely be “pretty gnarly.”
One significant challenge is getting UHC merchandise onto store shelves. Since Utah didn’t have a team until late April, team colors and logos weren’t finalized until mid-June.
“It’s a heavy lift for the short amount of time we have,” remarked Parker Bushnell, the director of retail for the Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club at Rank + Rally. “Typically, the ordering for sports apparel is completed about nine months in advance. For us to accomplish this just 60 to 90 days before the season starts presents a challenge, but it’s one we’re prepared for.”
“There’s a lot of work involved. But if you’re not excited about something like this happening, then perhaps you’re in the wrong field.”
For enthusiasts of hats, hoodies, and other memorabilia, here are 10 things to know about the current offerings and what will be available soon in online and retail stores.
1. What’s available right now?
Although the selection is somewhat limited, it is expanding. Currently, there are dozens of items for sale, including T-shirts, hats, hoodies, polos, and outerwear.
2. What’s coming?
Bushnell stated that the range of apparel will increase to “hundreds of different styles by the time the preseason begins.” The preseason kicks off on September 22 in Des Moines, Iowa, while Utah will host its first-ever home preseason game on September 23 at the Delta Center. (Another preseason contest will take place at the Maverik Center in West Valley City on October 5.)
3. Lots of hats … including New Era
According to Bushnell, the objective is to introduce “400 different headwear styles” throughout the season. Hats from Fanatics, 47 Brand, and New Era are already on sale. In July, the NHL announced a partnership with New Era Cap to create headwear and apparel for all 32 NHL franchises.
“New Era is our largest headwear vendor for the Jazz, and we anticipate that this will transition and translate well to the NHL side as well,” Bushnell added.
4. No jerseys until 2025
Hockey aficionados are passionate about their jerseys, but fans in Utah will have to wait until January or February of 2025 for theirs.
“Due to the team’s late formation, we are operating on a different ordering timeline compared to everyone else,” explained Bushnell. “Most teams will receive their merchandise in September after placing orders the previous December. We, however, didn’t even have a team back in December.”
5. There will be jersey alternatives available
Bushnell mentioned that various products resembling jerseys will be offered, including T-shirts adorned with names and numbers, as well as hoodies that represent the jerseys themselves. A notable product of this kind is the “lacer hood” produced by Boston-based 47 Brand.
6. Jerseys: different yet familiar
The 2024-25 NHL season signifies the shift from Adidas to Fanatics for the league’s on-ice uniforms. The initial jerseys, traditionally known as sweaters, were revealed just before the NHL draft at the end of June. The league confirmed that these jerseys will still be produced by SP Apparel, a Quebec-based company that has been manufacturing uniforms for nearly 50 years.
7. Memorabilia for games and seasons
In addition to caps and apparel, the Utah Hockey Club intends to provide limited-edition merchandise that pays tribute to the team’s inaugural season and specific games.
“In theory, everything will be limited edition, but many items will celebrate individual games, whether it’s a puck marking a particular matchup or a silicone or vinyl ticket available for purchase for the game you attended — those sorts of items,” Bushnell stated. “We aim to offer a variety of unique keepsake items since this first year will be exceptionally special.”
8. Where will the team store be located?
The Utah Jazz Team Store, situated on the main concourse of the Delta Center, currently features a small section of merchandise from the Utah Hockey Club, with new items being added frequently. Bushnell revealed, “That area will be evenly divided—50-50—between Jazz and hockey this season. We are also working on securing a bit more space to ensure we don’t compromise the areas for either the Jazz or hockey.”
Additionally, there will be a dedicated hockey location on the upper concourse, as well as six or seven other outlets selling hockey merchandise throughout the Delta Center.
9. Options for online shopping
The NHL’s official team stores are managed by Fanatics. For Utah, there’s a separate “adjacent site” operated by Rank + Rally at UHCTeamStore.com.
Fanatics generally provides merchandise for all 32 teams, while the Utah Hockey Club team stores—both online and in-person—aim to offer more “unique and exclusive” items, according to Bushnell. “We aim to be as localized as possible, ensuring that whether you shop in-store or on our website, you find products that are meaningful, unique, and that you literally can’t get anywhere else.”
10. What fans have liked so far
Bushnell reported that the two fan events the team hosted—the team introduction in April and the draft party in June—ranked among the top 10 Jazz games in terms of revenue. “The blue has been very well received,” he noted, adding that the circle crest logo has emerged as the top-selling design.
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Utah Hockey Club: Breaking Barriers and Selling Merchandise Ahead of Inaugural Season
Introduction to Utah Hockey Club
The Utah Hockey Club is poised to make a significant impact in the world of ice hockey, not just within the state of Utah but across the nation. As the inaugural season approaches, excitement is building among fans and players alike. This article explores the Utah Hockey Club’s mission, its efforts to break barriers in the sport, and the innovative merchandise offerings that supporters can look forward to.
Mission and Vision of Utah Hockey Club
The Utah Hockey Club aims to promote the sport of hockey at all levels, fostering a community that embraces diversity and inclusion. The club is dedicated to developing local talent and providing a platform for aspiring hockey players from various backgrounds. This commitment to inclusivity is a cornerstone of their organizational philosophy, which aligns with the broader goal of expanding the reach of ice hockey in Utah.
Core Values
- Inclusivity: Welcoming players and fans from all walks of life.
- Development: Offering training and resources to nurture young talent.
- Community Engagement: Actively participating in local events and initiatives.
Breaking Barriers in Ice Hockey
Ice hockey has historically been viewed as a sport for select demographics, but the Utah Hockey Club is determined to challenge this perception. By implementing programs aimed at underrepresented communities, the club is breaking down barriers and ensuring that hockey is accessible to all.
Community Outreach Programs
The club has launched several community outreach initiatives designed to engage youth and families who may not have previous experience with ice hockey. These programs include:
- Free Clinics: Offering free introductory clinics for children from diverse backgrounds.
- Scholarships: Providing financial assistance to families in need, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to participation.
- Partnerships with Local Schools: Collaborating with schools to introduce hockey as part of physical education programs.
Merchandise Offerings Ahead of Inaugural Season
As the Utah Hockey Club gears up for its first season, it is also launching a range of merchandise to engage fans and foster team spirit. The merchandise not only serves as a source of revenue but also as a way for fans to show their support for the club.
Types of Merchandise Available
| Item | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Team Jerseys | $75 | Stylish jerseys with the Utah Hockey Club logo. |
| Hats | $30 | Adjustable caps featuring club branding. |
| T-Shirts | $25 | Comfortable tees for casual wear and game days. |
| Hoodies | $50 | Warm hoodies perfect for chilly rink nights. |
Online Store Launch
The Utah Hockey Club has launched an online store where fans can purchase merchandise conveniently. This platform aims to reach a broader audience, allowing fans from all over to support the club, even if they cannot attend games in person.
Benefits of Supporting the Utah Hockey Club
Supporters of the Utah Hockey Club can enjoy a range of benefits, from community connections to exclusive merchandise and events. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Community Connection: Joining a passionate fan base that values inclusivity and teamwork.
- Exclusive Merchandise Offerings: Access to limited-edition items and early bird discounts for supporters.
- Event Participation: Opportunities to attend special events, meet players, and engage in community activities.
First-Hand Experience: Testimonials from Players and Coaches
The Utah Hockey Club has already begun gathering testimonials from players and coaches who are excited about the upcoming season. Here are a few insights:
Maria Gonzalez, Player: “Joining the Utah Hockey Club has been a game-changer for me. It feels great to be part of a team that values every player, regardless of their background.”
John Smith, Coach: “I’m thrilled to be coaching such a diverse group of athletes. It’s about more than just hockey; it’s about building a community.”
Practical Tips for Supporting Your Local Hockey Club
Fans looking to support the Utah Hockey Club can take several practical steps to get involved:
- Buy Merchandise: Show your support by purchasing gear online or at local events.
- Attend Games: Make a plan to attend home games and cheer on the team.
- Engage on Social Media: Follow the Utah Hockey Club on social media to stay updated on news and events.
- Volunteer: Participate in community outreach programs or events organized by the club.
Contact Information and Social Media
If you wish to learn more about the Utah Hockey Club, including upcoming events and merchandise releases, here is how you can connect:
- Website: www.utahhockeyclub.com
- Email: info@utahhockeyclub.com
- Facebook: Utah Hockey Club on Facebook
- Instagram: Utah Hockey Club on Instagram
Conclusion
The Utah Hockey Club is breaking barriers in sports and making strides toward an inclusive future for hockey in Utah. With their commitment to community engagement, innovative merchandise offerings, and a mission focused on inclusivity, the club is set to become a cornerstone of the local sports scene. Supporting the Utah Hockey Club means joining a movement dedicated to making hockey accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
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