Located on Port Jackson Avenue in Jackson Township is a premiere family entertainment destination containing a National Hockey League (NHL) regulation size ice rink. Center Ice Sports Complex is open year round to provide traditional winter-time fun, as well as a break from the oppressive heat during the summer months. The ice arena offers recreational ice skating for everybody during public skating hours, along with drop-in ice hockey games, figure skating, adult ice hockey leagues, and much more. Whether you are looking to watch a live hockey game, learn how to ice skate, or just have a fun afternoon out with your family, they have something to offer you.
Center Ice is a popular option for hosting fun and unique birthday parties. The kids’ party packages include private use of one of three party rooms, ice skating, pizza, cake, decorations and more. From setup to cleanup, they do all the work, allowing party-goers to just show up and have fun.
The distinguished Learn to Skate program at Center Ice caters to children and adults. Whether someone is looking to learn how to figure skate, play hockey, or just stand without toppling over, the friendly instructors will help you achieve your goal. Beginners may want to rent skates, which are available in all sizes, before investing in their own personal skates. For children interested in ice hockey specifically, there is a Learn to Play Hockey program, which will guide the child through basic skating instruction, up to the youth travel hockey level. Hockey equipment is available for use at no charge to class participants.
The Canton-Akron Hockey Association is an organization dedicated to introducing and creating greater access to the game of ice hockey for children ages 5-15 in the community. Center Ice is also proud to be the home rink for the University of Akron Zips ice hockey team, the Canton-Akron Jets High School Hockey Club, and the Center Ice Skating Club, which has sent skaters to compete in national figure skating competitions.
Additionally, Canton Precision is a theater on ice program that stages choreographed figure skating exhibitions throughout the year. The facility also hosts games and practices for sled hockey players through their relationship with Adaptive Sports Ohio, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and wellness of individuals with physical disabilities.
Many of these programs are made possible, in part, because of the Center Ice Foundation, whose mission is to provide funding for ice time, purchasing equipment, coaching/instruction and the overall advancement of our ice skating organizations. The Foundation was established in 2015, and since its inception has raised over $300,000 to help the programs to thrive. Donations made to the Center Ice Foundation, which are accepted at Center Ice, are specifically earmarked for whichever organization the donor specifies; proceeds do not go to administrative costs.
The Foundation is actively looking for donors for 2019. The program subsidizes: Canton-Akron Youth Hockey Association; Center Ice Skating Club; Canton Precision – Theatre on Ice; Canton-Akron Jets High School Hockey Club; Adaptive Sports Ohio Wildcats Sled Hockey Team; and the University of Akron Zips Ice Hockey Club.
For those looking to play fun, but competitive, ice hockey, The Adult Hockey League (AHL) has three separate divisions to accommodate any skill level, with sessions offered throughout the year.
In addition to the planned events offered here, there is an option for private ice rentals. The private ice rentals are ideal for large groups, such as church and school groups who are looking for something different and fun to do. For private events, typically the ice is divided in half, with one side used for skating, while the other side is set up for a fun game of broom ball.
The full service concession stand can feed hungry little skaters, and the air hockey table and arcade style games also provide fun entertainment for all ages. There is a Pro Shop on the premises for skate sharpening and expert equipment advice.
As you can see, there truly is something for everyone at Center Ice Sports Complex. Their warm and welcoming staff is excited to host you and your family for a fun adventure in ice skating this winter. Give it a try! For information about open skate times, class schedules and hockey games, see the website www.centericesports.com.
Center Ice Sports Complex
