The Sports and Recreation Unit (SRU) of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) and Kahnawake Shakotiiatakehnhas Community Services (KSCS) are thrilled to announce Phase I of the construction of a Covered Rink for both hockey and lacrosse. This project aims to enhance local recreational infrastructure and provide the community with a world-class facility for year-round enjoyment.

 

The new outdoor rink, meeting the Ontario Lacrosse Association and Hockey Quebec standards, will feature a full-sized operational rink with boards, glass, and protective netting. When the project is fully completed, automated lights and a refrigeration compressor will ensure hockey enthusiasts, figure skaters, and lacrosse players are catered to. In addition to serving Kahnawake′s recreational needs, the new rink will serve as a focal point for community events throughout the year, promising year-round excitement for all. 

"We are incredibly excited to unveil this new outdoor rink, which represents a significant investment in our community′s health and well-being," said Ratsenhaienhs Iohahiio Delisle, Portfolio Lead on Health and acting lead on Social Supports and Development. "This project represents a collaborative effort between KSCS and the MCK, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life through sports and recreation in Kahnawà:ke."

"We are excited to announce the beginning of Phase I and are looking forward to providing the community with a multi-use facility for year-round activities," said Director of Sports & Recreation Roiahtate Horn. "We need to send a big thank you to KSCS and their Board of Directors, and Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) for their financial contributions to this project. None of this would be possible without their continued support. I would also like to thank Kirby-Joe Diabo for spearheading this initiative and initiating the grassroots fundraising that went into the project."  

"We are proud to be a part of this transformative project that will not only elevate our sports and recreation facilities but also foster a stronger sense of community," said KSCS Executive Director Derek Montour. "This rink will be a place where people of all ages can come together, stay active, and enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year. We hope we can continue to partner with everyone in our community to jointly create a better place to live and grow."

“The construction of a new outdoor community rink is excellent news for Kahnawake. The community will be able to access it at all times, in both summer and winter, whether to practice lacrosse or hockey. Our government takes to heart the economic development of communities of all sizes, across all regions. That is why we invest in shared public spaces that bring people together in complete safety and help communities grow and prosper,” highlights the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED.

Construction on Phase I, which includes the concrete rink portion, boards, and safety netting, is expected to begin this September and be completed by the end of March 2025. Approximately one hundred and ten (110) trees will be removed to accommodate the construction, most of which are dead or dying ash due to the emerald ash borer. The trees will be replanted on a minimum one-for-one basis at another location within the Sports Complex′s surroundings. The cut trees will be made available for personal use by Kahnawakehronon.

For more information, please contact Roiahtate Horn at 450-638-3311.