Do we want to be dictated to, about when we can play, and when we can’t. We wouldn’t have much say in matters, obviously the capacity would be huge, but so would the rent. We all realise our place could be outgrown soon, but is it better to be in charge with the Devil you know, or take a chance with the Devils you don’t.
Yes. Absolutely, if it means we grow the Cardiff Devils brand.
We will still have IAW to fall back on. But currently it's too small. 15k is too big for hockey in this country, however who's to say that 15k doesn't include floor level seating, which in reality will mean it will be nearer 10k. If there's a GM in the league who can fill a rink that size it's Kelman. Think of what he managed in Belfast with the Bruins. Get an ice plant in a 10k seat in Cardiff and I'd be amazed if something similar doesn't happen. Also the playoffs, NIC is too small, Sheffield not really good enough and a crap location so nowhere else to go. 10k arena down the Bay (the proper bit not the crap wasteland we are on) would be very attractive for that. The location of Atlantic Wharf, mentioned in the article would make it just like Belfast on terms of amenities nearby which is perfect.
At the moment I imagine we are very healthy financially, compared to our rivals Belfast, Nottingham and Sheffield. But that is more to do with their lack of marketing ability. If Sheffield really gambled and pushed and hit their 9k crowds regularly they should blow us out of the water financially, especially if they have a good deal with the arena, as is rumoured under their new contract.
The problem we face is that this is as good as it'll get both financially and in terms of presence in the city. We've reached our peak which is perfect at this moment, but will it be forever? The sport is growing, slowly, but still growing. I don't want it to be a closed shop where only regulars are involved. There is also the junior development aspect, 3k fans will bring in a % of juniors proportional to that. Double that and you will find far more juniors.
I get the reservations over ice availability, but other teams make it work. It's more difficult but so what? That's not our problem. That's for the EIHL fixtures meeting to sort out. Other teams manage so we shouldn't be any different.
No brainer for me. IAW is too small already. And actually will serve a greater purpose in terms of "all ice users" if the Devils are predominantly elsewhere, I'm sure figure skaters, rec teams, junior and NIHL would love those prime Saturday and Sunday evening slots.