discussions began as early as 1994 to bring a united states hockey league (ushl) expansion to the city of sioux falls. expansion talks failed on three separate occasions, including a bid by wisconsin capitols owner geoffrey kelley to relocate to sioux falls, due to the city's failure to provide a permanent home and publicly-backed funds. the minnehaha ice and recreation center and expo ice arena at the w.h. lyon fairgrounds were in contention to host the team, however, both lacked sufficient locker rooms or accommodations for fans to meet league demands. the sioux falls arena was also presented as an option, but was written off due to poor sight lines and potential scheduling conflicts with other tenants.