With the team's home opener just days away, the Prince George Cougars have signed a new four-year license agreement with the city for the use of the CN Centre.
“The Prince George Cougars are deeply woven into the fabric of the CN Centre, Prince George, and Northern British Columbia,” said Glen Mikkelsen, CN Centre manager, in a joint announcement from the team and the city. “We are fortunate to have a team that values partnership, and we look forward to the excitement they bring to our community.”
Under the terms of the new deal, the city will receive an annual flat fee based on ticket sales, along with commissions on additional ticket sales and food and beverage revenue.
The city will also share in 50 per cent of private suite rental fees.
The agreement, which extends through 2028 with an option for an additional four years, comes after the previous contract with Edgepro Sports and Entertainment Ltd., the Cougars' owner, expired on July 31.
The WHL team has been in Prince George since 1994 and has called the CN Centre home since 1995. The team is coming off its most successful season yet; in 2023–24, the Cougars set franchise records with 49 wins and 102 points, entering the playoffs as the top-ranked team in the CHL.
In a thrilling run, the Cougars made it to the Western Conference final for the first time since 2007, but lost in six games to the Portland Winterhawks.
The team takes on the Spokane Chiefs Friday, Sept. 20 at 7:05 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. in a weekend double-header home opener at the CN Centre.
“We’re eager to give everyone more to cheer about in the coming years,” said Taylor Dakers, director of business for the Cougars.
The team also announced this week that fast-food restaurant Carl's Jr. in Prince George will be their uniform sponsors this season. The restaurant's logo will appear on players' helmets and jerseys.
“We’re excited for another great season with the Cougars! This team embodies hard work and dedication, and we’re thrilled to sponsor their jerseys,” said franchise owner Kim Gill.
Carl's Jr. will also continue sponsoring the Replay of the Game, the 50/50 draw and Game Highlights.
