Photos by Dennis Morrell, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57
Cable Dahmer Arena 19100 E Valley View Pkwy Independence, MO 64055
Year Opened: 2009
Capacity: 5,800
Pro Hockey in Western Missouri
Cable Dahmer Arena is the current home of the KC Mavericks, the premier ECHL team in Kansas City. It was built in 2009 in Independence, Mo to serve as the home and front office of the Mavericks as well as the KC Comets of the Major Arena Soccer League. It hosts more than just sporting events, as concerts, festivals, and trade shows are held here as well.
The Mavericks organization was founded in 2009 as the Missouri Mavericks of the CHL. They got off to a strong start in the league, qualifying for the playoffs and making it past the first round for their first 5 years. In 2014, the team transitioned to the ECHL, where they made the postseason in the 2015-16 and 2018-19 seasons.
The city of Independence has a few notable historical distinctions. It was known as the “Queen City of the Trails” since it was the start of the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails. Independence was also the hometown of US President Harry S. Truman, and the Truman Presidential Library and Museum is in the city.
Food & Beverage 4
Cable Dahmer Arena offers a nice selection of concession options with a few unique items worth trying. The typical cheeseburgers ($13), hot dogs ($5), and nachos ($6) are all available along with Bavarian Pretzels ($7) and grilled chicken ($13) at the main concession stands. Pie Five Pizza Company has two locations in the arena that serve up fresh pizza ($7 per slice), souvenir sodas ($8) and hot cocoa ($4). Scattered around the outer concourse, you’ll find several Dippin’ Dots and Bavarian Pretzel stands. The most unique offerings come from The Chocolate Fountain, where you could get chocolate coated cheesecake ($7), bananas ($6), marshmallows ($3), pretzels ($3) and Rice Krispies ($3).
Alcohol is available at Biergarten, Jack Daniels and the main concessions. Pepsi and Coke Products are available inside the arena.
Prices are a bit higher than other sporting events, but The Chocolate Fountain is a nice touch, and you should be able to find something to eat if you get hungry during the game.
Atmosphere 4
The arena is built like most hockey stadiums, with 20 minor seating bowls surrounding the edge of the rink. VIP and box seating is located above the general admission area on the second floor. Concessions are dotted around the fringe of the arena with some vendors selling soda and cotton candy among the bleachers.
The interior features of the arena feel more modern than other minor league rinks with a sleeker look that resembles newer NHL arenas. You can see all the action on the ice from any point, so you won’t need to fret over seating locations. The score is displayed on jumbotrons above each goal. The screens also show replays, player closeups and promotions. They are a nice touch over a traditional scoreboard and add to the overall experience.
Music is played in between the action but is cut out once play begins. The mascot, Mac, is usually in the stands engaging with fans or making noise with his drum. When the Mavericks score a goal, all the lights are turned off and loud train whistles are played, along with strobe lights. All the extra effects are a nice touch that make the game more exciting without getting in the way of the action.
A Mavericks game feels like a smaller version of what you would find in the NHL and a step above most minor league venues. If you’re looking for a professional hockey experience, Cable Dahmer Arena has you covered.
Neighborhood 4
The arena is in Independence, Mo and is situated near Independence Commons, a shopping center that has an AMC theater and some major retailers. The Kansas City Symphony at Union Station in only a few miles away and features world class performances. It is 15 minutes away from Arrowhead Stadium and less than 10 from Coco Waterpark and Cool Crest Family Fun Center if you want more to do on your visit. There are several chain restaurants nearby along with some local eateries like Salvatore’s and V’s Italiano Restaurante.
Independence is mostly known as the home of the United States 33rd President, Harry Truman. There are several museums and sites honoring this President in the city that are very worthwhile checking out when in town.
If time permits, do visit the Harry Truman Library & Museum. There is a #33 Truman banner hanging from the rafters at the arena – nicely done in honor of this US President.
Independence has plenty of things to do outside of the KC Mavericks and if you’re still looking for more, you can always take a short drive to Kansas City.
Fans 3
Attendance has been significantly lower this year due to the pandemic, but the fans present were still loud and energetic. Most sport a jersey along with team gear and many stayed till the final seconds. There may not be a lot of fans, but the ones that do show up care about the team and are engaged with what is happening on the ice.
Access 4
The rink is less than one mile from the nearest I-70 exit and a 45-minute drive from KCI airport and public transport is available. Parking is free and the lots directly surround the building.
Four restrooms are on the first floor, located at each corner of the arena. There is handicapped access to restrooms and exclusive seating area.
Return on Investment 3
Ticket prices for the lower seating area range from $12-$65 depending on the section. Premium access cost varies depending on the event, but usually ranges around $150-$350 for suites. Parking is free but concession costs are a bit high. This is about average for the ECHL.
Extras 3
There are nightly promotions and there is usually something for the kids, like Chuck-a -Puck or small contests during intermission periods. There is a raffle where you can win signed jerseys and other player gear. There are a few nice extras, but they aren’t going to bring you to the game.
Final Thoughts
Cable Dahmer offers an above average experience for the ECHL. The arena feels sleek and new and has nice selections available at the concessions. Independence also has plenty to do after the game and is close to Kansas City if it’s not enough. If you’re looking for an NHL experience on a budget, a Mavericks game is well worth it.
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