The Ice Arena
The School first formed an ice hockey team in 1974, using the ice rink at Kerry Park Community Centre. Practice time was quite limited and did not always fit well into a Shawnigan schedule, which limited the team’s development. Eventually, the building of an arena on campus was inspired by, and made possible through, a leadership donation from Andrew Purdey, as well as other generous donors, and is named to honor Andrew’s brother, Charlie Purdey.
Breaking ground for the project began in September 2014, and the arena, although not completely finished, was ready for use in March 2015. The official opening ceremony was held in October 2016.
Speed and overall costs were key factors in choosing to build a Sprung Performance structure. This fully insulated structure is built on a strong aluminum frame covered with a Dupont Tedlar membrane.
Inside features bleacher seating for 400 spectators, climate-controlled viewing from the second floor, a tall peak height and bright interior membrane to enhance the overall playing and spectating environment. There is a multi-functional lobby area with concession services, two college-sized dressing rooms with dry clothing rooms, four large dressing rooms and shower facilities for visiting teams, a referee lounge, a training room and strength and conditioning area, coach offices, and a broadcast studio. It even houses its own black and gold “Zamboni!”
In the new arena, the Shawnigan ice hockey teams have flourished as members of the Canadian Sports School Hockey League (CSSHL). In 2016 the program was expanded to include a Female U18 team in the CSSHL, and banners hanging in the arena attest to the success of this program. Ice hockey teams for different ages and abilities are offered, including development teams, which makes it possible to accommodate the large number of interested students.
The Charlie Purdey Ice Arena is also home to a Figure Skating program, which includes ice dance, skating skills, free skate and interpretive skating as part of the School’s 360 (co-curricular arts and activities) program. The team has competed with good success.
On special occasions throughout the year, the School will host a Family Skate for the community with donations supporting local charities. The ice is also used by local minor hockey and adult rec hockey teams, and twice, it has been the venue for a Vancouver Canucks rookie training camp, which was very exciting for fans.
The information presented in this write-up is based on current information available in the School's Archives and consultation with key people who have some relevant connection to this "object." If you have further information about this "object" that you would like to contribute, please contact the School’s Advancement Office at alumni@shawnigan.ca.
Speed and overall costs were key factors in choosing to build a Sprung Performance structure. This fully insulated structure is built on a strong aluminum frame covered with a Dupont Tedlar membrane.
Inside features bleacher seating for 400 spectators, climate-controlled viewing from the second floor, a tall peak height and bright interior membrane to enhance the overall playing and spectating environment. There is a multi-functional lobby area with concession services, two college-sized dressing rooms with dry clothing rooms, four large dressing rooms and shower facilities for visiting teams, a referee lounge, a training room and strength and conditioning area, coach offices, and a broadcast studio. It even houses its own black and gold “Zamboni!”
In the new arena, the Shawnigan ice hockey teams have flourished as members of the Canadian Sports School Hockey League (CSSHL). In 2016 the program was expanded to include a Female U18 team in the CSSHL, and banners hanging in the arena attest to the success of this program. Ice hockey teams for different ages and abilities are offered, including development teams, which makes it possible to accommodate the large number of interested students.
The Charlie Purdey Ice Arena is also home to a Figure Skating program, which includes ice dance, skating skills, free skate and interpretive skating as part of the School’s 360 (co-curricular arts and activities) program. The team has competed with good success.
On special occasions throughout the year, the School will host a Family Skate for the community with donations supporting local charities. The ice is also used by local minor hockey and adult rec hockey teams, and twice, it has been the venue for a Vancouver Canucks rookie training camp, which was very exciting for fans.
The information presented in this write-up is based on current information available in the School's Archives and consultation with key people who have some relevant connection to this "object." If you have further information about this "object" that you would like to contribute, please contact the School’s Advancement Office at alumni@shawnigan.ca.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
