The Manitou Community Arena has been a pillar of the town since the mid-1960s, and while it continues to be a source of local pride, some parts of the facility are due for a refresh.
Don McLean, chairman of the Manitou Arena Board, says, “We did a big major renovation in 2015 to our upstairs and our kitchen area, but some of the areas like the change rooms and washrooms in the basement just haven’t seen change for quite a while. We’re looking at trying to make some upgrades.”
A lifelong connection
McLean’s passion for the arena runs deep—he grew up in Manitou and spent much of his youth inside the facility.
“I’ve been in Manitou my whole life,” McLean shares. “I played hockey in that arena, my kids play hockey there. I figured it’s a good place to spend my time and put some effort into making change in the community.”
In addition to chairing the board, McLean also coaches his son’s U13 hockey team. His own playing career was cut short by injury before high school, but he found a silver lining in competitive curling. “Everything happens for a reason,” he reflects. “It gave me a different perspective on things.”
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More than just hockey
While hockey remains the heart of winter activity at the arena, the space is also a hub for community events.
“We’re actually a pretty busy building,” McLean explains. “We host the Manitou Agricultural Fair, which is July 5th and 6th this year, and the Honey Garlic Maple Syrup Festival on September 6th. So, it’s more than just hockey—we serve the whole community.”
50/50 Fundraiser to support renovation goals
To support necessary upgrades, the arena board is turning to the community with a 50/50 fundraiser in partnership with Funding Change.
“We started the 50/50 back in February,” says McLean. “Our first draw in March gave away just over $1,500. The final draw is May 1st, and the jackpot is already sitting just over $7,000—so someone’s going to go home with over three grand!”
The board’s fundraising goal sits between $80,000 to $85,000, and they’ve already applied for several grants. “If we can raise five, six, seven thousand dollars through the 50/50, that would go a long way,” McLean adds.
Renovation timeline
The board plans to begin renovations this spring. “We had an incident this winter with the kitchen floor, and we got some funding from the Pembina Area Foundation to redo that. That work starts in May,” McLean says.
They hope to begin basement upgrades, including new seamless rubberized flooring in the dressing rooms, later this summer. “It’s just better for skates, easier to clean—just makes life easier for everyone,” he explains.
Sponsorships and volunteers welcome
McLean encourages local businesses and residents to get involved—whether financially or by volunteering.
“I’m never going to turn anyone away,” he says. “If anybody wants to help, they can reach out to manitouarena@gmail.com. Whether it’s sponsorships, donations, or volunteer hours—we’ll take all the support we can get.”
To purchase 50/50 tickets and help support the Manitou Community Arena, visit: Manitou and Community Arena