Southaven, Mississippi – After a rapid four‑month construction effort, the Landers Center is ready to host professional ice hockey once again. Crews finished installing a full‑size rink on Tuesday, paving the way for the Federal Prospects Hockey League’s (FPHL) newest franchise, the Mid‑South Monarchs, to debut on Oct. 23.
Fast‑track installation
Jerry Edwards, president of EK Automation, explained that his team received the assignment and immediately began work. While a typical rink build can take eight months, Edwards’ crew completed the project in half that time. “It was a bit of a rush,” he said. “It was quite a challenge, but it was one that the whole team was up for and we were proud to be part of it.”
Rink meets professional standards
According to Edwards, the new ice surface meets National Hockey League (NHL) quality standards, ensuring a safe and competitive environment for players and fans alike. The Monarchs will be the first professional hockey team to call the Landus Center home since the Mississippi RiverKings folded in 2018.
Community excitement
The return of professional hockey is being welcomed by local families, sports enthusiasts, and businesses that anticipate increased foot traffic on game nights. The Monarchs’ arrival adds a new entertainment option to the Mid‑South region, complementing existing attractions and supporting the local economy.
Upcoming home opener
The Monarchs’ inaugural game is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 23. Tickets will be available through the Landers Center box office and the team’s official website. Organizers encourage fans to arrive early for pre‑game activities, including youth hockey demonstrations and meet‑and‑greet sessions with players.
What’s next for the league
The FPHL continues to expand its footprint across the United States, bringing affordable, family‑friendly sports entertainment to smaller markets. The addition of the Mid‑South Monarchs reflects the league’s confidence in the region’s appetite for hockey and its commitment to growing the sport at the grassroots level.
With the ice now in place, Southaven residents can look forward to a season of fast‑paced action, community pride, and new opportunities for local businesses to thrive on game nights.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
