In a significant boost for local youth hockey, Black Rock Mountain Resort has officially opened its new 17,000-square-foot multi-use event center, which will serve as the home of the Utah Outliers, a developmental hockey team. The new facility, located in the heart of the resort, is designed not only to accommodate the needs of aspiring hockey players but also to host various community events and activities. Skye Payne, the director of sales and marketing for Black Rock Mountain Resort, emphasized the importance of this venue in fostering a vibrant sports culture in the area. "This is the new home for the developmental hockey team, the Utah Outliers," Payne stated. "The space is NHL-sized, measuring 85 feet by 200 feet, and can seat up to 2,000 spectators and fans." Rich Wolper, the developer behind Black Rock, has long envisioned a facility that would enhance opportunities for young athletes. A dedicated hockey parent and managing partner of the Utah Outliers, Wolper's commitment to youth sports has influenced the design and purpose of the event center. For over a decade, he has aspired to create a space that caters to the needs of local youth athletes, and this vision has culminated in the recent opening of the venue on November 1, coinciding with the Outliers' inaugural game. The Utah Outliers, a U-20 Tier II hockey team, comprises players aged 17 to 20 who are competing for opportunities to advance to collegiate and professional levels. The team’s 2025-26 season includes 27 home games scheduled through the end of March, and the event center is prepared to welcome fans for each match. "Plus, seating is really affordable, at just $20 for general admission," Payne noted. "It’s a great way to spend a fun day for all hockey and sports fans." Beyond hockey, the facility is set to accommodate various athletic groups, including the Park City Curling Club and the Park City Pioneers. The event center’s versatility allows it to host a wide range of programming, from figure skating to banquets, corporate events, and concerts. "The venue has multiple levels, including the ice arena, a workout section, and a membership area," Payne explained. He further highlighted the introduction of the Onyx Club, a social and wellness club that offers sports, dining, and entertainment discounts, as well as access to facilities like the pool, spa, and sauna. One of the standout features of the new event center is its transformability. The ice rink can be converted into a multifunctional space suitable for different events, accommodating up to 4,000 attendees for concerts. "We can cover the ice with a floor and carpet, which allows us to accommodate all types of events and activities," Payne stated. The center has already played host to a corporate party, and plans are in place for a dance competition scheduled for the upcoming spring. In addition to the event center, Black Rock Resort’s expansion includes plans for further growth, adding 118 guest rooms and a resort-style pool to enhance the guest experience. "By the end of next year, we’ll also introduce an additional restaurant and bar that will overlook the Jordanelle," Payne shared. "These upgrades reflect our commitment to evolving with our guests' needs and solidifying Black Rock Resort as a premier, full-service destination for leisure, events, and entertainment." The comprehensive development at Black Rock Resort signifies a significant investment in the community’s future, particularly in the realm of youth sports. The presence of a dedicated facility for the Utah Outliers not only provides a much-needed home for the team but also fosters a sense of community among sports enthusiasts of all ages. For those interested in supporting the Utah Outliers, ticket information and game schedules can be found at blackrocktix.com. The newfound focus on local youth hockey, coupled with the versatility of the event center, positions Black Rock Resort as a central hub for sports and community engagement in the region. As the season progresses, the collaboration between Black Rock Resort and local sports teams will likely yield more opportunities for youth athletes, enhancing their skills and contributing to the overall growth of sports culture in Utah. The event center stands as a testament to the vision of community leaders dedicated to cultivating a thriving environment for young athletes to develop and succeed in their sporting endeavors.