Chicago Wolves to host Illinois high school state championships at Allstate Arena

The Chicago Wolves and the Amateur Hockey Association of Illinois announced a multi-year agreement that transfers the Illinois State High School Hockey Championships to Allstate Arena in Rosemont, beginning in March 2026. The move ends a 35-year run for the tournament at Chicago Stadium and the United Center and brings the state’s marquee scholastic weekend under the wing of the AHL franchise.

The initial slate starts with the 2026 Illinois Boys Combined and Red State High School Hockey Championships on Friday, March 6 at Allstate Arena, followed by the 2026 Illinois Girls High School Hockey Championships on Sunday, March 15. The schedule places both boys and girls finals on a major indoor arena stage, aiming to boost visibility for teams, players, and programs across the state.

"The Wolves remain committed to growing the sport of hockey in Illinois and we’re thrilled to host the AHAI High School State Championships starting this season at Allstate Arena in Rosemont," Wolves President of Business Operations Jon Sata said. The announcement also promises expanded broadcast and streaming coverage of the state playoffs, beginning with a selection show on Marquee Network and culminating with the boys and girls championships televised on Marquee.

For players, coaches, and program directors, the implications are practical: expect a shift in logistics for travel, locker-room arrangements, practice ice plans, and fan travel patterns. Hosting the championships at a professional venue gives teams access to a higher-profile environment and delivers increased exposure for senior players and underclassmen alike. For fans and families, the change means a new hub for hotel blocks, parking choices, and gameday amenities—plan ahead and confirm ticket and travel details as March approaches.

The broader impact touches recruiting and community interest. Higher broadcast availability through Marquee Network will put more state playoff moments in front of scouts, college coaches, and casual viewers, translating regular-season momentum into a bigger stage at postseason time. Youth programs and local rinks can leverage the weekend to promote registration, alumni gatherings, and local rivalries.

The takeaway? Mark March 6 and March 15 on your calendar, check Wolves and AHAI channels for ticket and broadcast details, and start talking travel plans if your team advances. Our two cents? Treat this as a power play for Illinois hockey—use the bigger stage to showcase players, rally your fan base, and make the most of a fresh home-ice advantage for the state’s high school game.