Landers Center Hockey Rink Installation Finished
Crews completed a new hockey rink at the Landers Center, preparing the arena for the return of professional hockey.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Hockey
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The four-month installation of a new professional-grade hockey rink at Southaven's Landers Center was completed on October 13, 2026. This marks the return of professional hockey to the venue for the first time since 2018.
Why it matters
The installation allows the Mid-South Monarchs, a team in the Federal Prospects Hockey League, to begin their home schedule in Southaven. The arena has remained without professional hockey since the Mississippi RiverKings folded eight years ago.
The rink installation, completed by EK Automation, meets official NHL quality standards. The project spanned four months, significantly faster than the industry average of eight months.
The players
Landers Center
This is a multipurpose arena located in Southaven that previously served as the home for the Mississippi RiverKings.
Mid-South Monarchs
The Monarchs are a professional hockey team currently competing in the Federal Prospects Hockey League.
EK Automation
This technical firm was responsible for the installation of the new hockey rink at the arena.
The details
EK Automation oversaw the installation process to ensure the ice surface meets the standards required for professional play. The venue now stands ready to host the Mid-South Monarchs, who are set to play their home opener at the arena later this month.
Timeline
2018 marked the last year professional hockey was hosted at the Landers Center.
October 13, 2026, was the date crews finished installing the rink.
October 16, 2026, is when the Monarchs will play an away game in Fresno.
October 23, 2026, is the date of the Monarchs' first home game.
October 24, 2026, is the date of the team's second home game.
Season Trajectory
The return of professional hockey to the Landers Center serves as a major milestone for the region's sports landscape after the 2018 folding of the Mississippi RiverKings. It establishes a new home-ice advantage for the Mid-South Monarchs in their current Federal Prospects Hockey League campaign.
Fans can purchase tickets or inquire about season access by contacting the Landers Center box office at (662) 280-9120. Doors for the home-opening weekend will open at 6 p.m. with puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m.
The takeaway
The successful installation of a professional-grade rink signals a renewed commitment to hosting minor-league sports in Southaven. Fans should check the team's official schedule to plan for upcoming home games following the Monarchs' first two season losses.
Further reading
For more on the current local hockey season, visit the Southaven Hockey section.
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