As the puck drops on the Pensacola Ice Flyers’ 2025-26 season this Saturday, owner Greg Harris promises fans an experience “like nothing they’ve ever seen on the Gulf Coast.”
The Bay Center has undergone a stunning $10 million transformation thanks to the Tourist Development Council and the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners, bringing NHL-level amenities to Florida’s panhandle. From cutting-edge lighting and sound systems to brand-new boards, glass, and ice plant, every element has been upgraded to professional standards.
NHL-Quality Facility on the Gulf Coast
“If an NHL arena wanted to put a brand new system in top to bottom, they would put what we got in the Bay Center,” Harris said. “That’s a badge of honor for me. Our coach has been using it for recruiting.”
The upgrades extend beyond aesthetics. The new ice plant replaces a system that was “beyond its lifecycle,” while LED lighting has replaced inefficient halogen fixtures that “weighed tons” and generated excessive heat. Harris notes these improvements will ultimately save the county money through increased efficiency.
- The sound system might be the most noticeable change for fans. “Everything is just so crisp and so clear,” Harris explained. “You’re hearing every single beat. You’re not missing an announcement… the speaker arrays are everywhere.”
Fresh Start with Championship Pedigree
Harris made difficult decisions in the offseason, bringing in new coach Jeremy Gates and overhauling the roster. Gates, a former Ice Flyer who won three championships (2013, 2014, and 2016), represents exactly the kind of winning culture Harris wants to instill.
- “We needed a hard reset on some things here,” Harris admitted. “At the end of the day, they weren’t getting the job done. And some of these guys that we’ve had here… have not won. So we need some new blood.”
While saying goodbye to fan favorites wasn’t easy, Harris stands behind the decision. “Sometimes those are the hard decisions you have to make for the longevity and the longer-term vision of the team.”
Community at the Heart
The Pensacola Ice Flyers Foundation continues expanding its community impact, with the team serving as the presenting sponsor for Mardi Gras and supporting numerous local organizations, including Rally Foundation for childhood cancer research, Covenant Care, and Fiesta.
- “You’re not just buying a ticket to watch a hockey game,” Harris emphasized. “Every cent also helps contribute to something a part of our community. It gets turned right back around.”
Growing up in small farming towns in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Harris learned early to “take care of your community, doesn’t matter what’s going on.”
Don’t Miss Opening Night
Despite the long hours—Harris was at the arena until 10 p.m. the night before the interview—his passion remains undimmed. “I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” he said. “I’m super blessed to be a part of something and really to help grow a fan base.”
Tickets remain available for Saturday’s opener against the Macon Mayhem. Harris advises arriving 45 minutes early to buy tickets at the box office and catch the pre-game festivities.
- “Don’t be late for the intros with the new lights. We’re going to have a light show. You’re going to hear the new sound system going full bore.”
