Community Rallies to Save Local Ice Rink

The L.A. Kings Valley Ice Center in Panorama City, a cornerstone of the San Fernando Valley, is facing the threat of permanent closure. Families associated with the facility recently received notice from the rink's management that the building is scheduled for demolition.

A Hub for Youth Development

The facility serves as the home base for the California Heat, a prominent youth hockey club. For many young athletes, the rink is more than just a place to play; it is a space for personal growth.

"I've played at this rink my whole life so it's going to be sad to see it go," said 12-year-old Abram Wall. Seventeen-year-old George Sulyan, who has trained at the facility for years, noted that the rink helped him become more mature and responsible while building lasting relationships.

The Impact of Losing Ice Access

The proposed demolition date of May 1 falls directly in the middle of the team's ongoing practice program. Parents and coaches are concerned about the lack of alternative facilities in the region.

Daniel Vitale, director of goal tending for the California Heat, emphasized the scarcity of available ice in the area. "We can't just walk in anywhere and book ice, there are other teams and other organizations that are using ice sheets. So it's not an unlimited resource," Vitale explained. Los Angeles County currently has fewer than a dozen ice skating rinks available to the public.

Calls for City Intervention

Community members are now urging city leaders to intervene and find a solution to preserve the center. Parents are highlighting the importance of providing youth with active, social environments rather than sedentary activities.

"We don't want them stuck on iPads and we don't want them just sitting and watching TV. What are we doing with our kids when we are taking away these places," said parent Abbey Wall. Eyewitness News reached out to the facility's general manager for comment but has not yet received a response.