The Carlyle Sports Arena recently upgraded its facility by adding both a new sound system and netting protection.
A complete sound system was purchased and installed by GV Video out of Regina. The entire cost was provided for from monies allocated by the Sports Arena, Carlyle Figure Skating Club, Carlyle Minor Hockey, and the Town of Carlyle.
There were also some monies held on deposit by two minor hockey teams who have been defunct for years. Funds from the old Moose Mountain Wild and Moose Mountain Impact teams were allocated to the speaker upgrade.
There are now 19 speakers lining the sides of the rink with four more installed at centre ice. Four new speakers were also added to the waiting room. The sound is crystal clear and is a welcome upgrade from the old system.
New netting has been installed on the north side of the stands and will be added to the south side shortly. The Town of Carlyle has been proactive in adding this protection.
Chris Humphries is a local parent who is pleased with the upgrades. “I have been very impressed with the new speaker system. The sound quality is much better and as clear as a bell. Regarding the netting, as a parent I am all for it. Too many people get hit with flying pucks and we will get used to looking through it.”
Melanie Lemieux vividly remembers the time her daughter was struck by a puck. “Many years ago, Sarah came to the rink to watch her brother David play. She went up from ice level to see her dad and got hit behind the ear. She ended up in the Regina General Hospital for a week with a concussion and fractured skull but thankfully recovered.
“Now as I watch David’s son and my grandson Alex play U9 hockey, I am happy to see the new netting at the Sports Arena.”
Attending a Cougars’ game last year, Chris Levesque reached down to help a friend and received a puck to the face just below his nose. “I am all for it and happy with the new netting. It will only take a game or two to get used to and will no doubt save many injuries over time. Parents won’t have to worry about their kids in the stands so much.”
Netting is not being installed on either ends of the rink, and fans on both sides can still watch the games from behind the glass on the first two bleacher steps. It does not affect the view from the waiting room.
After consultation from many sources and the supplier was selected, black was the colour of netting chosen. White and clear colours are considered too reflective for well-lit rinks.
