The final skate at the old arena

By C. Scott Holland

In the late spring of 2000, work on Leamington’s new twin-pad arena complex was well underway. The opening of the new complex was slated for September, 2000.

For Leamington Minor Hockey, the Leamington Jr. B Flyers, the Leamington Figure Skating Club and several other hockey groups — including the local senior and girls leagues — life at the old arena was quickly coming to an end.

When all hockey had been finished, one final day of public ice skating was offered to area citizens as a way of taking one last spin around the “old barn” and reliving the hundreds of memories that the building offered.

Enjoying a final skate in 2000 at the former Leamington Recreation and Agricultural Centre were John Hammond, Brenda Fischer and Jim MacKenzie.

Photo by C. Scott Holland

For two hours on a Saturday afternoon, dozens of people laced their skates up and skated to the music played over the Flyers’ sound system.

Memories were traded of the fence meshing that protected the ends during its original years. The stories of the South Essex League games, some of which turned in fierce battles.

The Flyers triumphant All-Ontario title runs, the original hand-watering system and the off ice antics as well as the bingos, shows, concerts, and visits by famous people. In general, its atmosphere even on that last day was one that brought smiles and elicited fond memories.

It was certainly one of the fondest farewells given.