Construction has begun on a multi-million dollar hockey training facility in the Municipality of Port Hope.
With heavy machinery working in the background, Municipality of Port Hope Mayor Bob Sanderson, MPP David Piccini along with the development group of the facility, Shane Weatherby and Andrew Watson (missing from the photo is Justin Williams) posed for a photo.
The NHL style elite training hockey centre will be located on a 30-acre property at the south west corner of Dale Road and County Road 28.
The 20,000 square foot facility will include a 80′ x 120′ ice surface, a gym geared towards hockey training and cardio, along with stationary bikes, treadmills and a weight room.
The setup for the facility will also be available for dance or yoga.
From idea to shovels in the ground has been a five year journey for the three partners.
Training will be targeted towards players from Tykes to off-season American Hockey League or NHL.
Sanderson said the idea for the facility is “absolutely fabulous.”
“It fits with all the goals the community has.”
“Nothing could be better at this point in time. It’s a perfect fit, it’s a perfect location. It’s very exciting and I can’t wait for it to come to fruition.”
Piccini said it’s great to have a world class hockey training facility in Port Hope.
“Getting shovels in ground, any day is a good day.”
Highlighting the role of the group, Piccini said, retired three-time Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe winner Justin Williams has never forgot where he came from.
“That’s the mark, not only of a true athlete, but a true patriot and community champion. He’s never forgot his roots.”
“This is making complete whole communities when our kids can have access to a world class training facility for their mental health and for their physical health. How exciting it would be to see more local homegrown talent on the NHL stage.”
Piccini said, “potentially to have the Hayley Wickenheiser of tomorrow, the Justin Williams of tomorrow lacing up their skates here is so, so exciting for our community.”
With shovels now in the ground, Weatherby said the group of three are very excited about the future.
“We’re ecstatic to get this going. We can’t wait to get some kids in and start training them and adding some additional opportunities for people who want to develop hockey skills.”
Weatherby said the support from the municipality has been amazing.
“We couldn’t be happier with that – we’re getting full support. We’ve excited to work with the town and get this developed.”
Target opening for the facility is October 2022.
Exclusive – Elite Training Hockey Facility Breaking Ground in the Municipality of Port Hope
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
