CARROT RIVER - The Carrot River Community Centre will be officially renamed Kearns Arena.
Miranda Blaber, Community Development Manager said, “The decision came after discussion at the recreation board level when our facilities manager mentioned how the current name (Carrot River Community Centre) confused people. Some may assume community centre means hall and not the skating rink. He also suggested renaming the skating rink to recognize the past facility manager, Syd Kearns. The Carrot River recreation board made a motion and took it to a town council meeting to move forward on this.
“Everyone agreed that renaming the skating rink Kearns Arena was an excellent way to honour not only one, but two individuals who played a significant role in this public space and the recreation community over the decades,” Blaber said.
The Town of Carrot River said the name change pays tribute to the Kearns family for the decades-long commitment to the town's recreational development. “With a vision for improved recreation space in the early 80’s, Matt Kearns was a pivotal figure in the creation of the skating rink as we know it. His dedication was mirrored by his son, Syd Kearns, who took over the management of the facility over the years, ensuring its operation and continued growth. Matt and Syd both placed value on recreation for the community's well-being. Their legacy lives on at Kearns Arena, a symbol of their lasting impact."
Blaber said, “This decision was based on contribution of time to the 'old arena' and then in establishing, operating, and maintaining the 'new' rink from its inception, its building and operation from 1983 to 2013.”
Matt Kearns, Syd’s father, was a key player in getting the land for the needed new rink said Blaber. Both Matt and Syd volunteered in building the new rink and Syd took over management when it opened in 1983. Syd worked at the new rink for 30 years and during that time supported local minor hockey as a board member and coach.
In partnership with the Carrot River Recreation Board, the Carrot River Town Council will have an official renaming ceremony on Oct. 12, where the Town will recognize the significant contributions. The ceremony will take place in front of the rink at the Carrot River community centre, soon to be Kearns Arena.
That evening, the Soup Town Cafe will host supper, and the Carrot River Outback Thunder will play their first hockey game with puck drop at 7:30 p.m.
