THUNDER BAY – SPORTS – The home start of the Lakehead Thunderwolves hockey season has been delayed. Issues with the ice refrigeration system at Fort William Gardens is the culprit.
Lakehead University Director of Athletics Tom Warden said, “Our apologies to the community, our season-ticket holders and our corporate sponsors for having to delay the start of our season. We appreciate your support and understanding regarding this unfortunate situation with our venue.”
The Lakehead Thunderwolves have been told that the repairs will be completed in time for its series versus the Guelph Gryphons on September 27th and 28th.
The Fort William Gardens start to this year’s ice season will be delayed as a result of problems with the arena’s refrigeration system which is used to freeze and maintain the rink surface. Originally slated to open on Sept. 20, the Fort William Gardens is now expected to be operational beginning Sept. 27.
“The refrigeration system has been undergoing required capital renewal work this summer,” said Kelly Robertson, General Manager – Community Services. “This is a complicated job that requires a specialized engineering design, made-to-order components, and specialized contractors. Progress on the job was negatively affected when a problem was discovered yesterday evening.”
City staff is in the process of contacting all affected ice users to advise of the delay and discuss alternative options. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” added Robertson.
Ice bookings scheduled as of Sept. 27, onward are not anticipated to be impacted.
