The World Junior Championships may still be four months away, but the city of Buffalo is ready to play host – at least according to the IIHF and USA Hockey.

Members of the organizations were in town Friday to perform site inspections on both HSBC Arena and Niagara University’s Dwyer Arena – which will house the 10-team tournament in 2011.

The Buffalo WJC committee was pleased to find that both buildings passed with flying colors.

“It’s not much about an inspection, it’s more of a kickoff meeting for us to get more familiar with the persons who are doing an excellent job in here,” said IIHF Event Director, Hannes Ederer. “That’s what I saw already. This rink is just built for a tremendous hockey tournament… We could already start tomorrow… also the other rink in Niagara, this will be set up nicely. It is a smaller rink but as we know, fits well.

“I see no big questions right now… I’m looking forward to great hockey games during the Christmas season.”

In conjunction with the 11-day World Junior Championship tournament, the Buffalo Bisons will lend a hand by hosting some adjoining activities at Coca-Cola Field; including an outdoor ice rink in the outfield, curling exhibitions, broom ball, live entertainment, fireworks and international food and beverage, according to Buffalo’s Tom Ahern.

It’s one of many events that will occur in Buffalo from December 26 to January 5 while the tournament takes place. To ease congestion, the WJC committee is also working with the NFTA as well as Nexus and the Peace Bridge Authority to arrange transportation from the rinks to local hotels, restaurants and shopping.

USA Hockey’s Mike Bertsch estimates that with an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 fans expected to attend the tournament, the local economic impact could range from $50 million to $100 million.

“It's like a small Olympics in a lot of regards," Bertsch said. “It has that type of impact on the community. The inspiration, motivation and excitement… it’s going to be a lifetime deal for [the fans].”

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