News release
10 April 2013
Wednesday, April 10, 2013ELMIRA, N.Y. - New owners of the First Arena, Tom Freeman and Nathan Cook held a press conference today, April 10th to share their vision for the future. Local business owners, area representatives and regional officials were present during this press conference to share in the good news.
Freeman and Cook will now operate the facility, the team, and restaurant/catering as part of their ownership. The two have big plans to revamp the events held at the facility, including new entertainment and performances. Arena sponsorship packages are also being reviewed as they look for continued local and regional involvement.
Opening in 2000, the First Arena has become an entertainment center for the Southern Tier and Twin Tiers regions as well as the home of the Elmira Jackals. The Elmira Jackals compete in the Eastern Conference of the ECHL, which serves as the primary development league for the American Hockey League (AHL) and the National Hockey League (NHL). After playing in the ECHL for the last six years, the Elmira Jackals have established themselves as one of the most competitive teams in the league.