Utah Outliers on the ice. Photo: Ellie Mitchell @ellielaurenphotography

PARK CITY, Utah — The Utah Outliers kicked off their season with a statement win, defeating Rock Springs 7–4 in their opener played in Wyoming. For Game Operations Manager and Housing Coordinator Bill McCloud, the victory wasn’t just about the score but about what it signaled for the year ahead.

“One of the biggest takeaways was how fast the team gelled,” McCloud said. “They’d been training for three weeks, but this was the first time they’d played together as a unit. Scoring the first goal of the season, from returning forward John Carney, was awesome to see. From there, they just clicked.”

The Outliers, a U-20 Junior team competing in the National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC), provide elite players from across North America and Europe with the chance to develop their skills, pursue collegiate scholarships, and prepare for professional hockey careers. Known for their speed, grit, and disciplined play, the Outliers are now making their biggest move yet: relocating to Park City.

A new home in the mountains

The Outliers’s season will start with primarily away games while the new arena at Black Rock Mountain Resort is being completed. McCloud is confident the arena will be ready for both players and fans come the first home game on November 1.

“I was just there the other day,” McCloud said. “The glass is in, the boards are in, the seats are in. It’s just a sneeze away from being finished. It’s been incredible to watch it go from a hole in the ground four years ago to what it is now.”

The Outliers hope the move to Park City will create a long-term home base and a stronger community connection.

“Fasten your seat belts,” McCloud said. “It’s going to be a fun ride, not just this season but for many seasons to come. Park City is our forever home, and we can’t wait to play in front of a home crowd and bring championships here.”

Hockey’s growth in Utah

The Outliers’ arrival in Park City comes during a surge of interest in hockey across Utah, fueled in part by the professional Utah Mammoth’s move to the state.

Beyond the ice, the Outliers are deeply tied to their host community. Players live with local host families during the season, creating bonds that often last a lifetime.

“We currently have 17 players living with families in Park City,” McCloud explained. “But we’re always looking for more. These young men come from all over the world, and host families are a huge part of junior hockey.”