Bears return to Penrith for 2016!

The Sydney Bears AIHL team is pleased to announce the team will be playing home games in Penrith Ice Palace again in 2016. The rink will also undergo some small improvements with new lines and markings which should make the rink look new again. Rink management has also invested in new lighting which will enhance the game experience further.

The Bears had an up and down season last year results wise but proved that they can keep up with any team in the AIHL. The bears managed wins over every team in the comp and every game at Penrith Ice Palace was a close game.

The Bears experienced a few highlights last year at Penrith Ice Palace. The game against CBR Brave, which had playoff ramifications, created one of the best atmosphere’s of the year. Having NHL players attend our game against the Mustangs was a highlight for both players and fans too.

General Manager Wayne Hellyer says the move to Penrith at the start of 2015 provided the team with some fresh ideas to work on. “The management team of William and Sharon have been a joy to work with, allowing the team some flexibility to try some new innovations like the Bears Bar upstairs during last year which will to continue in 2016. The Bears Bar has become an important revenue stream to help keep the team afloat.” 

Wayne and his team are hopeful more fans will come out to support the team in Penrith, which set records last year for merchandise sales, as they strive for the finals in 2016. There will be some new innovations in regards to the bar in 2016 which we will announce in coming weeks. 

Fan favourite defenceman Spencer Austin loves playing in his home town and had this to say about the home fans “The guys loved meeting the fans after each game as it gives them a chance to thank them in person for their support. We definitely hear the fans on the ice and it helps give us the extra motivation when we needed it!” 

Bring on 2016!