The New York Islanders have recently introduced an exciting addition to their home at UBS Arena: two public pond hockey rinks. With the aim to foster a sense of community and encourage the love for hockey, these rinks will serve as a hub for various activities and events. From 4-on-4 tournaments to “learn to play” clinics, the Islanders are committed to bringing the joy of hockey to people of all ages and skill levels.
The Rinks: Natural Ice and Synthetic Ice
The first rink at UBS Arena will feature natural ice, providing a traditional experience for youth and adult teams to hold games and tournaments. This rink will bring a nostalgic feel to the players, who can enjoy the crispness and smoothness of playing on real ice.
On the other hand, the second rink will feature synthetic ice, ensuring accessibility throughout the entire season. This innovation allows hockey enthusiasts to enjoy the sport even in warmer weather conditions when traditional ice might not be available. The synthetic ice rink will be specifically designed to cater to community programs, offering the fundamentals of hockey and skating to individuals of all ages and skill levels.
Expanding Opportunities and Memories
The two rinks at UBS Arena will not only facilitate organized games and tournaments but will also offer 90-minute public skate sessions. This provides an opportunity for families, friends, and hockey enthusiasts to gather and enjoy a day of outdoor skating and fun. These sessions have the potential to create lasting memories and solidify the love for hockey in the hearts of both newcomers and seasoned players.
A Season-Long Outdoor Experience
The rinks are just a small part of the larger outdoor experience that UBS Arena aims to provide. Known as The Park, this 155,800-square-foot area will include a beer garden and a “VIP Igloo Garden.” By offering these additional amenities, the Islanders intend to create a welcoming and entertaining atmosphere for fans and visitors alike.
Moreover, plans are in place to utilize the rinks for Islanders pregame shows and watch parties when the team is playing away games. This not only enhances the game-day experience for fans but also strengthens the bond between the team and its supporters.
The construction and maintenance of these rinks are under the expert guidance of Dan Craig, who has a rich history in ice operations. With 23 years of experience as the NHL facilities operations manager, Craig is widely recognized as the “ice guru.” He has led the construction efforts for prestigious events such as the Winter Classic and Stadium Series outdoor rinks. His expertise ensures that the rinks at UBS Arena will meet the highest standards of quality and provide a fantastic playing surface for all participants.
Pat Kelleher, the executive director of USA Hockey, expressed excitement about the Islanders’ new outdoor rinks. Kelleher recognizes the importance of playing hockey outdoors, as it creates unique experiences and introduces new families to the sport. Through these rinks, the Islanders have the chance to expand the reach of hockey and help cultivate a new generation of players and fans.
Mark Your Calendars
Hockey enthusiasts and Islanders fans alike can look forward to December 27 when the rinks at UBS Arena open to the public for the first time. The grand opening will coincide with the Islanders’ game against the Pittsburgh Penguins and will be attended by Hockey Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine. This special event marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the New York Islanders and their fans.
The New York Islanders’ introduction of outdoor pond hockey rinks at UBS Arena signifies their commitment to the community and the sport itself. By providing opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to engage in hockey and skating activities, the Islanders aim to create lasting memories and foster a love for the game. With the grand opening just around the corner, fans and players alike eagerly await the chance to experience the joy of outdoor hockey at UBS Arena.
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