Wolseley, Saskatchewan, a small town that was not chosen to host the Kraft Hockeyville 2024 competition, is determined to find other ways to improve its local hockey rink. Despite not winning the competition, the town has received $25,000 in donations, with an additional $10,000 for minor hockey league gear. While this amount is not as substantial as the $250,000 prize and the opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game, the townspeople are grateful for the support. They are continuing their efforts to raise funds to replace the aging iceplant at the Wolseley Sportsplex, which is currently in its 40th year of a 25-year plan. The estimated cost for replacing the iceplant is between $600,000 and $700,000, but the community is determined to reach their goal, having already raised $100,000 in the past year.
The Wolseley Sportsplex is a vital hub for the community, with one family spending four nights a week at the rink for hockey and figure skating activities. Janelle Bieber, a parent whose children frequent the sportsplex, acknowledged the disappointment of not winning the competition but emphasized the importance of moving forward. She highlighted the significant role that the children played in the Hockeyville campaign and reassured them that the rink will not be closing down despite the loss. Town mayor Gerald Hill expressed pride in the community’s efforts, noting the positive exposure they received through the Kraft Hockeyville competition. He acknowledged that while they may not have won, the recognition and publicity garnered from the competition have put Wolseley on the map.
Despite the disappointment of not winning the Hockeyville title, the community of Wolseley remains resilient and determined to enhance their local hockey rink. Mayor Gerald Hill recognized the community’s perseverance and positive outcome from the competition, emphasizing the invaluable exposure the town received during the process. The town’s commitment to improving the sportsplex and providing a space for recreational activities for its residents is evident in their ongoing fundraising efforts. The support and dedication of the townspeople, including children who actively participated in the Hockeyville campaign, are a testament to the community spirit that continues to drive Wolseley forward.
The Kraft Hockeyville competition, which began in January with nominations from various communities across Canada, culminated in the selection of Elliot Lake, Ontario, as the winning community for 2024. Despite not clinching the grand prize, Wolseley, along with other nominated towns like Enderby, British Columbia, and Cochrane, Alberta, have showcased their passion for hockey and community involvement. While the $25,000 donation and additional support may not match the prize awarded to the winner, the determination and resilience of the Wolseley community demonstrate their unwavering commitment to improving their local sports facilities. The impact of the competition has brought Wolseley to a broader audience, highlighting the town’s efforts to maintain and enhance its recreational infrastructure for the benefit of its residents.
In conclusion, the community of Wolseley, Saskatchewan, may not have won the Kraft Hockeyville 2024 competition, but their determination and resilience in the face of disappointment are commendable. The ongoing efforts to raise funds for the replacement of the aging iceplant at the Wolseley Sportsplex and the support from the townspeople demonstrate the strong community spirit that drives their pursuit for improvement. Despite the competition’s outcome, Wolseley has gained valuable exposure and recognition, underscoring the town’s commitment to providing recreational opportunities for its residents. The collaborative efforts of the community, including active participation from children, reflect the unwavering dedication to preserving and enhancing the local sports facilities, ensuring a vibrant and active community for generations to come. Through their continued perseverance and community support, Wolseley remains steadfast in their mission to ensure the longevity and vitality of their beloved hockey rink.
