Ice sports "set to explode"

November 8, 2022

ACT Ice Sports Federation Tony Prescott today told the Canberra Times ice sports in Canberra are “set to explode"

after the ACT government announced its support for a new $40 million centre in Tuggeranong.

“The facility is a ‘game-changer’ for Canberra after ACT Labor made an election promise in 2020 for

a new ice sports facility,” Prescott said.

"Watch this space.

“Ice sports is going to explode.

"This facility is going to be one of a kind in Australia and a premier ice sports centre in the southern hemisphere.

"It's massive.

“This feels like a major milestone moment after an eight-year campaign.

"During and post-COVID, about four rinks closed nationally, so this is huge news for the ice sports community nationally – not just getting one built, but one of such magnitude."

Its spectator capacity will be just under 5000.

"The Phillip rink served us incredibly well for a long time, but it's a tired, 40-year-old facility," Prescott said.

"We foresee this new facility to routinely host international and national events in ice sports and over time it will also become a national centre of excellence for ice sports.

"We want a facility that will grow Canberra ice sports, create opportunities for local kids with pathways to the elite level," he added.