Gleichen looking for fundraising

Times Reporter   

 

The asphalt is being poured behind the Gleichen Arena, for an outdoor rink project slated to be completed next summer. Before it can be used for pond hockey more money needs to be raised.

“We didn’t have hockey, so we started a pond hockey program to keep our minor hockey association,” said president of Gleichen Minor Hockey, Cara Sheppard. Standard also has a similar pond hockey program.

“Some of the community kids have gone to Hussar, played in Rockyford. Some of the other local kids are in Strathmore,” she said. “If you build it, they will come.”

Sheppard is hoping for more support from local community groups throughout the winter to keep the project going. $45,000 has been allocated to the outdoor rink, but total costs could range anywhere from $50,000 to $136,000. Gravel has already been donated.

“There’s been some money put aside, but not enough to finish the project,” Sheppard said.

Gleichen’s indoor facility was updated a few years ago, but the outdoor rink, a size of 70 ft. by 150 ft., could turn into something else for the warmer months.

“There is absolutely zero (things) for the older kids to do here in Gleichen – nothing,” Sheppard said. “So in the summer time, once we get the pad built, we’re hoping to put skateboard stuff out here for the kids, and we’ll put some basketball nets up.”

Sheppard expects this to entertain kids from neighbouring towns and rural communities as well.

“Bassano’s got a hilly thing for their kids to ride their bikes on, or there’s the skate park in Strathmore, but there’s nothing locally or around here,” Sheppard said. “You go through the town, the only place that’s got good asphalt, is down the highway. We certainly don’t want kids playing down there.”

Sheppard is also a director with the Gleichen Ag Society, who is letting the project take form on the land of Wheatland County. The Ag Society will also maintain the outdoor rink.

Another temporary ice surface beside it is being prepared for the annual Hockey Day in GA for Feb. 8, going into its fifth year.