Since the Kraft Hockeyville contest started in 2006, many places in Saskatchewan have tried to win the honour but failed.

Moose Jaw is now going to take an attempt at being the first place in the province to win the distinction as they are trying to win the 2020 edition and win $250,000 that would be used for upgrades.

Chris Flanagan is organizing the Moose Jaw bid and says the Pla-Mor Palace which contains the Bert Hunt arena and is the home to Moose Jaw minor hockey and figure skating could really use the money.

A lot of work needs to be done in and outside.” Flanagan said.  “From the parking lot to washrooms to dressing rooms to the ice surface to everything, it would be a big help for the community and a big help in the arm for Moose Jaw minor hockey.

The winning venue would also get the right to host an NHL pre-season game.  Flanagan says having the NHL come to the city and provide it with a little more exposure would be something people in the city would never forget.

“I can’t imagine what it would be like here if the NHL came to town. It would be phenomenal.” Flanagan said.  “We couldn’t have the spectacle that Regina had when the Heritage Classic was there, but we know the NHL would bring a first-class show to Mosaic Place and the excitement that would be generated would be huge.”

There is still a long ways to go before the winning venue is named as the final four will be selected March 14 with the winner being named March 28.