The Brockville Winter Classic kicks off this weekend at the Rotary Park Rink.
The three-day event includes a free outdoor hockey tournament with Ottawa Senators alumni, a sledge hockey tournament, and wraps up with a free public skate for families on Family Day.
"Just look around, see all the people having fun. We have NHL alumni in town. Just raising money for an outdoor rink that’s free for everyone to use, so that’s the best part," said committee member Jeff Severson.
This is the seventh year NHL alumni have been at the event, organizers say.
Former Ottawa Senator Chris Neil was among the alumni at the event, scoring five goals.
"Yeah I had a few today, so it was fun being out there," he said. "The rink’s in great shape and being able to come down to Brockville and partake in the Winter Classic, it’s awesome for us to be here."
It's been one year since the Senators retired Neil's jersey, something he says he'll always remember.
"You know, my wife behind me, my kids, it’s not just my name up there, it’s everyone’s. But having that a year ago today, it’s a night I’ll never forget," he said.
Later on Saturday night, the Brockville Winter Classic Committee will host a “back to the 90s” gala.
The rink, located just west of downtown Brockville, has been upgraded over the years to be suited for large events like this. The ice is refrigerated and covered by a roof, allowing a proper sound system to be installed.
The funds from the event in years past provided the committee the ability to upgrade the Rotary Park Rink over the past 14 years. Tim Hortons, RBC, and others sponsor this year’s events.
The committee still has plans for more accessible seating, but sound and lighting upgrades will provide spectators with a fresh experience for the 2024 Brockville Winter Classic.
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