Local News
Steinbach councillor hears minor sports concerns about ice time
Steinbach City Councillor Jac Siemens says he has been hearing from concerned residents since council voted to allow the Eastman Selects to make the Southeast Event Centre their new home. When the topic came up at a recent city council meeting, Siemens questioned whether enough ice would remain available for local groups if the Selects moved into the facility. It was decided by council to approve a 5-year agreement to make space for the Selects, allowing them to return to Steinbach after playing out of Beausejour for many years. Just over a week later, he says those concerns are being echoed by minor sports families. Concerns raised at Pistons game “I was approached by a number of individuals who coach or manage minor hockey teams in Steinbach,” Siemens said. “They said there’s a lack of ice, that they’re not getting the amount of ice they thought they would get. Another concern is from the ringette parents. I had a call from concerned ringette parents regarding the ice that they require as well.” Siemens notes these conversations are not necessarily complaints, but questions about how minor sports groups will secure enough practice and game time as the season gets underway. Limited options for extra ice Currently, minor hockey practices are primarily scheduled at the T.G. Smith Centre, not the new Southeast Event Centre arena. Some groups have also been using ice in neighbouring communities, but Siemens says that option is becoming increasingly limited. “As they grow their programs as well, then there's less and less ice available elsewhere,” he said. “So Steinbach isn’t the priority in the other communities. And they would also pay a premium for that ice time.” One possible solution could be enhancing the outdoor rink near the theatre at the Event Centre site. Siemens suggested city council may want to explore adding a roof to extend the season and improve conditions. Calls for a third ice sheet The issue of ice availability is not new. Siemens recalls that even before the pandemic, requests had been made to council to consider building a third ice surface in Steinbach. “I think now there will be more pressure again from minor sports to build a third ice sheet or look at other options, whatever those would be,” he said. “This year will be a learning curve as to what ice is available, where, and how to make the most efficient use of the ice.” Siemens says he would have preferred a shorter trial agreement with the Eastman Selects before committing long-term. He notes while the city benefits financially by hosting the team, there remains concern about balancing the needs of local taxpayers.