The Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham is preparing to deliver a remarkable fan experience as the Nottingham Panthers get ready to kick off their 25th ice hockey season. As both the arena and the team mark significant anniversaries, a range of new features and initiatives will aim to make this season unforgettable for supporters.
The Panthers, who relocated from the former Nottingham Ice Stadium to the National Ice Centre in 2000, have enjoyed numerous successes at their current home. Over the past two decades, the team has captured an Elite League title, five playoff championships, and eight Challenge Cup victories. Their crowning achievement came in 2017 when they made history as the first British team to win a European trophy, securing the Continental Cup.
This season, as both the arena and the team celebrate their milestones, fans can expect enhanced match-day experiences, special events, and unique packages that promise to elevate every game.
New Offerings for Fans
To mark the occasion, the arena is introducing a variety of food and drink options tailored to match days. Fans can choose from an array of meal deals, including hot dogs, southern fried chicken burgers, and carvery rolls, with the added perk of pairing their meal with a Panthers-branded beer—all for under £10. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the arena offers a hospitality upgrade in the form of the Green Room package. This allows fans to enjoy a pre-game meal in a premium setting before heading to their seats for the match.
For those wanting to immerse themselves further in the game day atmosphere, the Face Off Experience provides access to the Green Room, where fans can enjoy a meal and then watch the match from a shared suite. Following the game, ticket holders are invited back to the Green Room to listen to postgame interviews with players, giving fans the perfect opportunity to round off their match-day experience.
A commemorative eco-friendly cup has also been created to mark the 25th season, available for fans to purchase as a souvenir. The reusable cup will be on offer at various concessions throughout the arena, and for each pint of a special non-alcoholic beer purchased, a portion of the proceeds will go towards a local charity supported by the arena.
Enhancing Match Day Atmosphere
This season’s celebrations extend beyond the game itself, with the arena enhancing the pre-match atmosphere. Fans will have the chance to enjoy live podcasts, interviews with players, and live music performances at a nearby venue before the game. This pre-match entertainment aims to build excitement and provide a lively atmosphere as fans gear up for the on-ice action.
The season’s first home game is set for Saturday, 14th September, and anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting match. The history of the Panthers at the Motorpoint Arena is filled with iconic moments. The team’s first game in their current home took place in September 2000, with an early victory over the London Knights in front of a packed crowd. Since then, the arena has played host to numerous historic moments, including the Panthers’ treble-winning season in 2013, capped by an overtime playoff final win against the Belfast Giants.
Among the standout performances in recent years was the team’s shock victory over top Swiss side Bern in the 2017 Champions Hockey League. Despite being the lowest-seeded team in the tournament, the Panthers stunned their opponents with a 4-2 victory, a result that solidified their reputation as a team capable of performing on the European stage.
Looking Ahead to a Milestone Season
As the Panthers embark on their 25th season, there is a palpable sense of excitement surrounding both the team and the venue. The upcoming season promises not only thrilling on-ice performances but also a range of off-ice activities designed to enhance the overall fan experience. The arena’s new hospitality packages, upgraded food and drink options, and special commemorative merchandise are just a few of the initiatives introduced to celebrate this landmark year.
With the arena also celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, the celebrations will extend beyond the current hockey season. Plans are already underway for a series of events, including an exhibition highlighting the venue’s history, a gala skating event, and community-focused activities, all of which will engage both long-time supporters and local residents.
As the new season begins, the arena is clearly committed to ensuring that fans have an unforgettable experience. Whether through upgraded hospitality, enhanced match-day entertainment, or unique souvenirs, the Motorpoint Arena is determined to make this a standout season for all involved. As the puck drops on another year of action, the Panthers will look to build on their storied history and create even more memorable moments on the ice.
For supporters, whether long-standing or new to the sport, this 25th season offers a fresh opportunity to engage with the team and be part of a year filled with excitement, nostalgia, and anticipation. As both the Nottingham Panthers and their home arena celebrate significant milestones, the stage is set for what could be one of the most thrilling seasons in the club’s history.
