PARRSBORO – The Parrsboro Skating Club is back on the ice, making the most of a readjusted schedule due to a later season at the Lions Arena.
Due to the cost of running the artificial ice plant, the Lions were not able to make ice available until Dec. 1 this year, about one month later than organizations like the skating club and minor hockey enjoyed in previous years. Parrsboro Minor Hockey folded this year.
The late start has affected the skating club in more ways than one, according to president Leigh Wheaton.
“Our skaters this year will not be having our annual Christmas show, which is a disappointment in our skaters’ eyes and, I’m sure, in the community’s eyes,” he said. “Our annual show was always a huge fundraiser for our club.”
To make up for the cancelation of the Christmas show, the club will be hosting a “Come Skate with Our Skaters” open house on Friday, Dec. 22 from 4-6 p.m. This event will include the toonie toss and bake table, both of which have been reliable fundraisers and regular features of the Christmas show.
Parents and skaters have also had to readjust their schedules to get in the same amount of ice time in a shorter period of availability. They are now skating an extra hour for their regular Wednesday and Friday sessions, while an additional timeslot has been added on Saturday.
“With the late start to the season, our skaters will have less time to practice before the winter break,” said Wheaton. “Now, with them having to skate on Saturdays, it does interfere with some people’s schedules.”
The club has a membership of about 30 skaters this year, down from 40 two years ago, according to Wheaton, who said the decrease has had a huge financial impact.
However, he is keeping optimistic about the season ahead, with coach Laura Farrow back on board.
“Everyone is pretty happy to be back on the ice, and looking forward to a great year,” he said. “With all the help we have with volunteers and Laura, as always the vibe on the ice is positive.”
