A downtown parade Friday afternoon will celebrate the Peoria Rivermen winning their first professional hockey championship in 22 seasons, with a ceremony to follow at the Peoria Civic Center.
The Rivermen returned to Peoria on Wednesday with the President’s Cup trophy after winning the Southern Professional Hockey League title the night before with a 3-2 overtime win at Roanoke.
“It really accelerates the pride and loyalty to our team,” said Mayor Rita Ali. “The fact that they brought home the Cup is just a great thing, so I'm very excited, very proud that the Rivermen are part of our community.”
The fire truck parade will start at 4 p.m. Friday at the Gateway Building on the Riverfront, proceeding along Hamilton Boulevard and turning left on Jefferson on the way to Carver Arena.
Mayor Ali will give remarks at the free-admission ceremony before team captain Alec Hagaman, a Peoria native, presents the Cup to the fans. After an introduction of team members, fans will have a chance to get autographs and photos with players and pose with the trophy.
Championship merchandise will be available and the concession areas will be open.
