Community rink re-opens in Newmarket

  • 2021-01-14
A winter favourite is back, as the Newmarket Lions Park Community Hockey Rink has re-opened for skaters of all ages and skill levels.

Getting the ice, which is three quarters the size of a professional rink, up and running this year was a challenging task due to intermittently warm weather and social distancing concerns. The rink, which is normally constructed in early November, was put together in December by a group of volunteers headed up by Chris Howie. Warm weather caused flooding of the ice, further pushing back the opening until January, but finally the rink is now able to welcome blades.

The rink can accommodate up to 25 people at a time, on a first come, first served basis. Skaters are asked to limit their time to a maximum of 45 minutes if a line Forms.

The ice will not be home to any formal hockey games this winter, but will allow skaters to practice their skills, with equipment like sticks and nets available. Ice time is divided by age group, with children, teenagers and parents given priority.

Outdoor spaces like this often use signage and poster printing to notify visitors of safety regulations, as well as opening and closing times. The rink will be encouraging donations of non-perishable food for the Newmarket Food Pantry and Belinda’s Place women’s shelter, having collected almost 1,000 pounds of food the previous year.

The Newmarket Lions Park Community Hockey Rink opened to the public on January 7 and will be available for skating for the remainder of the winter, weather permitting.

Get a Free Quote for Forms