ASSINIBOIA - Steph VanDeSype, Recreation and Community Wellness Manager for Assiniboia, marvels at another successful winter season at Southland Co-op Centre, marking the conclusion of year two in this new venue. The farewell to winter season marks the start of an exciting spring and summer journey.
“Some of the highlights this winter at the arena included: Hosting a sold out WHL game, Moose Jaw Warriors against the Swift Current Broncos’, hosting a Midget AAA game and hosting an SJHL game. SCC also played host to 10 different tournaments, filling the rink with teams and fans from all over the province. Serving as host centre for the PJHL All-Star game was also very well received. Additionally, celebrating some very big wins, most notably the Senior Rebels League championship win captured at home,” said VanDeSype.
Assiniboia’s R&CW Manager expressed her amazement at seeing the 50/50 reach over $21,000, which is almost unheard of for a community this size.
There were 30 birthday parties were booked at the SCC this winter. The simulator saw bookings every day and Teen Centre consoles were filled with teenagers enjoying each other’s company.
The rink saw one last weekend full of hockey action as a recreation hockey tournament was being held Easter weekend, and the final day of public skating will be on April 5. Southland Co-op Centre will then transition to event mode with Streetheart upcoming on April 20, to kick off spring and summer.
Another feature of the SCC is the walking track and VanDeSype acknowledges that the track had feet on it all day, every day, and both the centre and the town are so glad to offer this space for those looking for movement opportunities, or enjoy meeting with friends while in a safe, active environment as well as serving for a safe, recovery option for those who have had recent knee or hip replacements.
“This space has again proven to be a hub, a community centre, a place where people gather to eat some amazing food, enjoy each other’s company, and feel like they are part of something big,” added VanDeSype.
Sentiments were shared around town and on social media when the Civic Centre demolition began, evoking many fond memories of the venue’s storied history among residents and former residents. The oval surface will remain for the public to enjoy recreational activities during the summer months.
“There is never any quiet time in Recreation, as one season ends another has already begun. We are excited for ball season; in one short month the diamonds will be buzzing with activity.”
The town is currently hiring lifeguards and summer day camp staff with opening day at the pool set for June 8, and dates for swimming lessons also set.
VanDeSype says there are other great events in the planning stages include the Better Together barbecues, Canada Day Celebrations, Mexican pool fiesta and a movie in the park.
