Video wall brings replay and engagement tools to Frank Crane Arena
The Nanaimo Clippers are adding a significant audiovisual upgrade to Frank Crane Arena, installing a video wall the team says will bring elements of professional game presentation to BCHL play.
The screen — previously used by the Nanaimo NightOwls during their summer season — will be operated from the arena’s existing gondola and supported by a four-camera package designed to capture on-ice action and fan moments in the stands. Team officials say the move answers a long-standing request from fans and is the product of work carried out over several years.
According to the club, the camera setup will include:
- One roaming camera focused on promotions and crowd engagement in the stands.
- Two cameras above the nets intended to capture replays of goals and close plays.
- A fourth camera that will be dedicated to tracking play.
| Equipment | Primary function |
|---|---|
| Roaming camera | Promotions and crowd shots |
| Above-net cameras (2) | Replays and close-up on-ice angles |
| Play-tracking camera | Follow live action |
Beyond replays, the club intends to introduce interactive features commonly seen at higher levels of hockey, including kiss cams and other fan-focused segments. Team representatives said they aim to provide “the usual game day stuff that you’d see at an NHL hockey game” and to replicate as much of that presentation as possible within a BCHL setting.
“The usual game day stuff that you’d see at an NHL hockey game, that’s the goal. We’d like to implement as much as we can from that higher level of hockey back into the game-day experience here in the BCHL at Frank Crane Arena,” said Stanley.
Stanley, speaking on behalf of the organisation, described the installation as a milestone after years of discussion with stakeholders and fans. The addition is expected to enhance the in-arena atmosphere for regular-season matchups and special events, and to help keep interest high following the Clippers’ run to a tight BCHL final series last season.
Operational limits during official reviews
The club is mindful of the rules governing official uses of video in hockey. Replays of plays that are under official review on the ice are not permitted to be shown to the audience during that review, but Stanley noted the arena can display the footage afterwards, once referees have rendered decisions.
Operation of the screen will be managed from the existing gondola at Frank Crane Arena, which the team says provides a practical control point for switching camera feeds, showing replays and running promotional content.
Bringing the video wall into the arena also leverages existing local resources: the unit being installed was used by the Nanaimo NightOwls, linking seasonal entertainment previously staged in the city to a permanent enhancement for hockey and other indoor events.
Local context and potential impacts
Frank Crane Arena is a community hub in downtown Nanaimo, hosting Clippers games, minor hockey and a variety of civic events. The video wall project is likely to affect several local concerns:
- Fan experience: Enhanced visuals and replays could increase attendance appeal and create sponsorship opportunities.
- Event capabilities: The arena may be able to host higher-profile events or concerts with improved AV infrastructure.
- Operational considerations: Staff training and adherence to league rules on review-replay use will be necessary to avoid conflicts with officiating protocols.
As the team continues to finalise installation details, Nanaimo supporters can expect a more cinematic presentation at future Clippers games. The upgrade represents a blend of community ambition and private initiative to keep local sports experiences fresh amid growing demand for higher-quality live entertainment on Vancouver Island.
Further details on timing, costs and launch programming have not been released by the club.
Coverage by WE NEWS — local reporting that weighs growth, environment and community.
