Grand Forks to Host '05 World Junior Championships

[PCM]

This is great news for UND, Engelstad Arena, Grand Forks and the surrounding region. Congratulations to all involved in making this a reality.

December 23, 2002

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - USA Hockey today announced it has selected Ralph Engelstad Arena and the University of North of Dakota in Grand Forks, N.D., to serve as host for the 2005 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship. The 10-nation tournament features the world's best players under 20 years of age. The selection of Grand Forks and the awarding of the event to USA Hockey are pending official approval by the IIHF General Congress in June.

[ScottM]

SWEET!!! It's great when our recruits come to us.

When do tickets go on sale?

[dagies]

Outstanding news for the UND and Grand Forks!!!

[Riverman]

Not bad for a city that's dying eh jbb/sdsufan?

Now let me see if I remember UND/Grand Forks made 66 million last year from the Ralph. This year more events. I can't wait to see how this city of no growth fares.

[OETKB]

This is awesome news. The city will be jumpin' in 2005. What a great atmosphere for the Team USA boys!

[denbo1]

The High School Boys played at REA, last week. They said that the small locker rooms are unbelievable. The World Junior Teams are going to be surprised when they see how classy we are up in the sticks.

[Tommiejo]

What a great Xmas gift for the city of Grand Forks & also a job well done. Second, I would like to know if it's possible when it's going to be held so that way I can plan my vacation around it. Thank you & happy holidays.

[sprig]

Last week of December, 2004 and first week of January, 2005.

http://www.usahockey.com/usa_hockey/main/h...forks_rel_1223/

[YaneA]

The New Ralph Engelstad Arena: the gift that keeps on giving.

The World Juniors will be a perfect showcase for the arena and the town. I like the fact that other nearby venues will also be included in tournament events--the Ralph in TRF and the Alerus here in Grand Forks.

[farce poobah]

I'm just a little surprised there's been no mention of using the old Engelstad Arena "even a little"... It's a pretty decent backup, as long as it doesnt rain in December.

[choyt3]

I'm just a little surprised there's been no mention of using the old Engelstad Arena "even a little"... It's a pretty decent backup, as long as it doesnt rain in December.

By that time, the 'old' Engelstad should be well into the renovation stages. It will make one heck of a basketball arena. Sure, it was nice. I like the new one a little better, though.

[star2city]

In Saturday's Herald:

Showcase to the World

Planners have been meeting for weeks mapping every detail of tournament that could require 2,000 local volunteers

UND's Fighting Sioux Club members and current season ticket holders will get the first crack at ticket packages starting at 10 a.m. March 3. On March 5, corporate sponsors will get their chance to make a deposit.

The worldwide ticket launch for the general public is set for March 7.

Those interested will be able to go online to www.theralph.com and click on the "World Junior Hockey" link to start the process. Or patrons can call toll free at (877) 917-4689 to place a deposit.