'We want to see some good hockey': Assiniboia rolls out red carpet for Red Wings after rink closure
CTV
The Weyburn Red Wings are carrying on with their season, despite their hometown rink being temporarily shuttered, thanks to the generosity of those in Assiniboia, Sask.
The Weyburn Red Wings are carrying on with their season, despite their hometown rink being temporarily shuttered, thanks to the generosity of those in Assiniboia, Sask.
"It was honestly, almost unbelievable to think, within 18 hours, we had about 23 billet beds. We had ice time. We had accommodations for coaches, we had meals,” explained Red Wings Head Coach and General Manager Cody Mapes.
“It was pretty, pretty extraordinary."
Due to mechanical issues with the ice plant at the Red Wings' home rink in Weyburn, the team was searching for new home ice on short notice.
A Facebook post by Assiniboia's recreation and community wellness manager, Stephanie Van De Sype, quickly gained traction.
"It was insane. I think the post had 550 shares. The whole province was talking about it. Everyone knew about it. You couldn't walk down the street without somebody saying, well, I could take someone in, or I know somebody who could take someone," Van De Sype told CTV News.
The town ended up with more billet families than necessary – something Mayor Sharon Schauenberg, believes speaks to the heart of her community.
