Manchester Storm Returns to AO Arena: Showsec Supports the 2026/27 Ice Hockey Season 

After a 25-year absence, Manchester Storm made a triumphant return to the AO Arena ahead of the Elite Ice Hockey League’s 2026/27 season. Showsec deployed 168 team members to support more than 11,000 spectators, delivering crowd safety, venue security and customer service throughout the highly anticipated fixture against the Sheffield Steelers. 

Showsec has maintained a continuous security presence at the AO Arena since 1995. Following the venue’s announcement in April, our Manchester operations team undertook detailed preparations for the return of ice hockey and the arrival of a new audience across the team’s 35 scheduled games. 

A new sport brings a distinct audience profile and additional crowd management considerations. Commenting on the operational planning behind Manchester Storm’s return, Andrew Cooper, Area Manager for Manchester, said: 

“Manchester Storm’s return to the Arena provides an excellent opportunity for our team to showcase its professionalism and expertise to a new audience. Our extensive knowledge of the venue, supported by months of detailed planning, enables us to consistently deliver high-quality crowd safety management, venue security and customer experience.” 

Showsec is proud to support the AO Arena as it welcomes ice hockey back to its events calendar. We look forward to maintaining a safe, secure and enjoyable environment for supporters throughout the season.