The three commissioners of Canada’s major junior hockey leagues came away impressed from last week’s two-day site tour of Brandon, the host of this year’s Memorial Cup.

Canadian Hockey League President David Branch, who is also the commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League, as well as commissioners Ron Robison of the Western Hockey League and Gilles Courteau of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League made their presences felt late last week. The three had numerous meetings with the host committee and were shown the facilities that will be used for the event as well as the sights and sounds of the city.

“The event has grown each and every year and with it, you say you want to keep the ball rolling in that way,” said Branch. “For that reason, the three commissioners have come here to be briefed and to have a good opportunity to review all the various facilities and the elements around the cup and things could not be better.”

All three commissioners were overly pleased with the Keystone Centre and feel the complex is one of a kind.

“The complex is absolutely incredible,” said Branch. “I don’t know if there is anything quite like it from what I’ve seen in North America. To have everything under one roof I think, will only create a unique experience for the Memorial Cup and for all the people who come and witness it.”

Robison was equally effusive in his praise.

“I think as you move around the country and attend events and certainly Memorial Cup events each year, the one thing that’s unique about Brandon is the number of features that this facility has available to itself,” said Robison. “Virtually all of the activity surrounding the event, with the exception of the participating teams’ hotels and the awards function, will take place under one roof. The convenience factor is tremendous for the teams participating, to the fans, to the media and so forth. We’re really excited that it’s going to be such a centralized event.”

“Going from the practice rinks to the main rink and not having to go outside, even if it’s in May and not having to take a bus is great for all the teams involved,” said Courteau.

The host committee is in the midst of looking for additional funding to update the current lighting situation in Westman Place as well as glass upgrades along the boards and dressing room refurbishments..

“There’s the commitment to meet all the necessary requirements and expectations. It’s a non-issue,” said Branch. “I think there’s a will to make it happen and I’m sure we’ll find a way. There are no issues there whatsoever.”

The 2010 Mastercard Memorial Cup will take place May 14-23.