California Heat Secures Path Forward with ASEC at New Reseda Ice Facility
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 9, 2026
California Heat Secures Path Forward with ASEC at New Reseda Ice Facility
Los Angeles, CA — California Heat Hockey and American Sports Entertainment Company (ASEC) announced today that the two organizations have begun formal collaboration to establish the future home of the California Heat at the new Reseda ice facility, set to open later in 2026.
The announcement follows a productive meeting held on April 8, where both groups aligned on a path forward for the club in response to the impending closure of the LA Kings Valley Ice Center (owned by Agora Realty & Management Inc and operated by PIM, Inc.), a long-standing hub for youth hockey in the San Fernando Valley.
Under the current plan, the Reseda facility will serve as the home rink for the California Heat beginning with the 2026–2027 season, with the club’s home games expected to be played there following the facility’s opening.
The collaboration represents a significant step toward ensuring continuity for one of the Valley’s most established youth hockey programs and reinforces a shared commitment to expanding access to the sport.
“This is an important moment for our players, families, coaching staff and the broader hockey community,” said Kelly Stirzel, Director of Hockey for the California Heat. “While this transition is challenging, we are encouraged by the progress being made and thankful for ASEC’s openness to working together as we navigate what comes next. Our priority is keeping this community together and creating a stable, long-term home for the program.”
“We are thrilled to be able to partner with Kelly and the entire California Heat Community to ensure a future home for their growing program,” said Brad Berman, President of ASEC. “With the closing of the Valley Ice Center in Panorama City, it became an immediate priority for us and our partners at the LA Kings to ensure the California Heat can continue building what is becoming a model program for youth hockey players in the Southern California Region.”
“We share in everyone’s excitement for this solution for California Heat Hockey,” said LA Kings President, Luc Robitaille. “The growth of youth ice hockey programs in Southern California sits
atop our list of priorities and we are grateful to our partners at ASEC and the great folks at California Heat Hockey for coming together to create a solution for an unfortunate and unforeseen development in the closing of the Valley Ice Center. We remain committed to supporting the California Heat and all of the growing youth hockey programs in our community.”
Both organizations noted strong alignment between ASEC’s operational expertise and the California Heat’s established programming, development pipeline, and community reach. Discussions will continue in the near term to finalize a comprehensive plan that supports both immediate needs and long-term growth.
At the same time, the California Heat remains actively engaged with local City Council offices regarding the future of the Valley Ice Center. Conversations are ongoing to explore options that support a structured transition for the thousands of families and athletes who rely on the facility.
Additional updates will be shared as plans continue to develop.
About the California Heat
California Heat is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth hockey organization based in the San Fernando Valley, serving over 200 players and families. Originally founded as the West Valley Wolves in 1992, the program transitioned to California Heat in 2012 and continues to focus on development, competition, and community. For more information, please visit www.caheathockey.com.
About ASEC
American Sports Entertainment Company is a leading owner, operator, and manager of recreational sports facilities across the United States and provides the highest-quality venues for athletes, families, and communities. With a commitment to excellence, ASEC offers top-tier sports programs, event experiences, and training opportunities for all levels of participation. For more information, please visit www.asecenters.com
