By Genevieve Judge, Local News 8 Reporter

CHUBBUCK – It’s something the Pocatello-Chubbuck area hasn’t seen in nearly 50 years.  Ice hockey.  But Friday night that all changed.

It’s a sound these players haven’t heard in Chubbuck or Pocatello for nearly five decades. That was when the last ice rink was open for business.  When John Young first moved to town 20 years ago…there was one question on his mind.

“We’re a winter community.  Where is the ice hockey?  And I think there are a lot of people who come into this area from other cold weather cities and ask the same question,” said Young, President, Chubbuck Pocatello Hockey Association.

Friday night the Chubbuck Pocatello Hockey Association hosted its first adult ice hockey game.  Some players have been playing together for years but have had to go to Idaho Falls to hit the ice.

“It’s great to have a place where we can come play in our own hometown and not have to drive the 50 miles to go play.  Idaho Falls is great to play in but it’s nice to have a place in your hometown,” said Dan Zajanc, hockey player.

“I’m out tonight just because I’m not going to miss the inaugural of actually having ice here.  I spent 25 years driving up to Idaho Falls to play hockey,” said Ray Sweigert, hockey player.

Fans didn’t mind the bitterly cold temperature of 10° to see an ice hockey game either.  This weekend youth leagues from Salmon will come to play giving the town an economic boost.

“It’s tourism.  It’s another asset in our community that draws people in.  They stay in the hotels, they stay in the restaurants, and we make friendships among the two organizations.  This is something that can go on year, after year, after year,” said Young.

Players say having ice hockey locally is an added bonus.

“Hockey is a great thing.  Not just for us old guys but it’s a great sport for kids.  Great sport, good tight community,” said Zajanc.    

“It’s a great thing to do in the winter when you’re bored and saying hey what can I do?  This is something you can do,” said Sweigert. 

If you want to check out some more ice hockey action there will be a youth ice hockey tournament this weekend on Saturday and Sunday.