The Lloydminster Bobcats are making a series of changes at the Cenovus Energy Hub ahead of the 2026-27 Alberta Junior Hockey League season, with the goal of improving the fan experience both on and off the ice.
After completing their first season in the new facility, the organization says it reviewed operations, gathered feedback from fans and worked with the City of Lloydminster to identify areas for improvement before the Sep. 18 home opener against the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.
Two service windows
Among the biggest changes are updates to food and beverage services.
The main concession will now feature two dedicated service windows, with one handling hot food orders and the other focused on snacks and drinks. New signage is also being added to help improve traffic flow and reduce wait times.
The Bobcats say the concession menu has been streamlined to allow for quicker service, while rotating specials and featured food items will still be offered throughout the season.
The team is also adding a new kiosk on the north side of the concourse serving Mini Melts, popcorn and bottled water.
Meanwhile, the former Grab-n-Go location in the lobby is being converted into a full-service canteen offering candy, drinks, snacks and specialty coffees. Weekend games will also feature sandwiches, wraps and healthier menu options.
Suite holders will see an expanded menu with rotating food selections available throughout the season.
Additional bar services
Fans will notice expanded beverage service options throughout the building.
A new full-service bar is being added on the north side of the main concourse, while suite-level guests will have access to a dedicated suite bar.
The main bar has also been updated to improve service efficiency and expand beverage options.
Pop-up beverage menus will be placed around bar areas to help fans see available selections before reaching the service counter.
Changes to ticketing and arena access
The Bobcats are also implementing several ticketing improvements.
Ticket scanning and collection will move closer to the arena entrance stairs, with entry points located at both staircases and at the elevator.
Season ticket holders will be offered multiple ticket formats, including digital wallet tickets, season pass cards and printed tickets.
The organization is also introducing wristbands for suite-level guests. Fans accessing suites through the elevator will receive a wristband and only those with valid suite tickets will be permitted into suite areas.
More visible merchandise and game-day information
A revamped merchandise area will greet fans immediately inside the main entrance.
The team says new signage will make it easier for supporters to find jerseys, hats and other Bobcats merchandise.
New display screens throughout the concourse will also provide updates on promotions, food and beverage specials, upcoming games, player features and other announcements.
Enhanced entertainment and fan interaction
The Bobcats are placing a greater emphasis on in-game entertainment this season.
A new full-time game host will lead activities throughout the night, including intermission contests, media timeout promotions and crowd interaction.
Fans can also expect more opportunities to meet players through autograph sessions following select games during the season.
The team says the arena’s jumbotron will feature additional content, including enhanced replay capabilities and new game-day features from the start of the season.
Giveaways will also be a regular part of the game-day experience.
Home opener Sep. 18
The Lloydminster Bobcats open their home schedule on Sep. 18 against the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.
The organization says additional improvements will continue to be implemented as equipment, signage and supplies arrive ahead of the home opener.
Officials say feedback from the first season at the Cenovus Energy Hub played a key role in shaping the changes and that the club will continue looking for ways to improve the experience for fans throughout the season.
