More Backyard Rinks Than Ever This Year Due to Lockdown

In Hockey, Local, Weather

There are many more backyard rinks popping up this year due to lockdown restrictions.

The winter of 2020/2021 will hopefully be a one-off, but COVID-19 has meant more family bonding with backyard rinks including this one in Cobourg.

Chris Dingman and his children, Brayden Baird-Dingman (age 7) and Myla Baird-Dingman (age 5) sprouting their Leafs jerseys are spending a lot of time skating on their backyard rink.

Dingman said it’s the families third year of having a backyard rink, “but this one was definitely motivated by COVID this year with the stay at home orders.”

Dingman and his children helped frame up the boards and level it out, then a tarp was put in, fill it with water and wait for the colder weather.

The rink is flooded it with a hand held “Zamboni” that hooks the garden hose directly to the hot water tap inside.

It took approximately about two hours to frame and set up and another day-and-a-half to fill.

“The kids hope is they can have their friends and classmates over once the lockdown restrictions ease in a week or so to enjoy the fresh air and their love of hockey – and the Toronto Maple Leafs

Pete Fisher
Author: Pete Fisher

Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love

Join Our Newsletter!

Want to keep up to date on news and events in Northumberland? Subscribe to newsletter!

You may also read!

Letter to the Editor – The Advocacy Cult That Hijacked Cobourg’s Homelessness Crisis

(Today's Northumberland file photo) For years, Cobourg has watched as a small group of vocal advocates have dominated the conversation

Read More...

Letter to the Editor – Selective Boundaries – Why Proof of Residency for Recycling, but Not for Public Safety or Services?

(Today's Northumberland file photo) As of July 2, 2025, Northumberland County is requiring proof of residency to access its Community

Read More...

Northumberland OPP – Numerous Charges After Stolen Vehicle Recovered (Name Released)

Officers from the Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have recovered a stolen vehicle and laid multiple

Read More...

Mobile Sliding Menu