Accesso ShoWare Center

On a cold January evening in 2009, the accesso ShoWare Center buzzed with anticipation. The Seattle Thunderbirds were taking the ice for their first game in their brand-new home. The energy was electric. This marked a new era for the team, finally free from the oversized Seattle Center Coliseum. The accesso ShoWare Center, nestled in Kent, Washington, became their dedicated hockey haven. Construction on the $84.5 million project began in September 2007. Initially, the arena was to be named the “Amiga Center.” However, a missed payment led to the naming rights going to VisionOne, Inc., who christened it the ShoWare Center. Later, tech company Accesso acquired VisionOne, and the name evolved into the accesso ShoWare Center in 2017. The accesso ShoWare Center isn’t just about hockey. This multipurpose arena hosts a wide range of events. From concerts featuring artists like Amy Grant and Logic to sporting events like the Hilton HHonors Skate America in 2012, the venue has seen it all. The arena boasts a capacity of 5,887 for hockey games, expandable to 7,141 for concerts and other events. Did you know the first goal ever scored in this arena was by Brenden Silvester of the Seattle Thunderbirds? It happened during the very first game against the Everett Silvertips. Or that the arena’s massive new scoreboard, installed in 2021 as part of a $5 million renovation, features two ribbon boards and four main replay screens? The accesso ShoWare Center has witnessed its share of milestones. Country duo Florida Georgia Line drew a near-capacity crowd of 7,129 in 2013. In 2014, the arena celebrated its two millionth guest. The accesso ShoWare Center isn’t just a building; it’s a testament to the dedication of the Seattle Thunderbirds and the vibrant community they call home. It’s a place where memories are made, cheers erupt, and the spirit of competition thrives.