Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena: A Local Gem for Hockey, Skating, and More
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena: A Local Gem for Hockey, Skating, and More
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of ice-related activities for people of all ages. Whether youre a seasoned hockey player, a graceful figure skater, or simply looking for a fun way to stay active, the arena has something for you.
Hockey: A Local Tradition
Hockey is a beloved sport in Mt. Lebanon, and the ice arena is home to several youth and adult hockey leagues. The arena has two NHL-sized rinks, providing ample space for practices, games, and tournaments. In addition, the arena offers a variety of hockey programs, including learn-to-play clinics, skills development camps, and advanced training sessions for competitive players.
Success on the Ice
Over the years, Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena has produced numerous talented hockey players who have gone on to play at the collegiate and professional levels. Some notable alumni include:
* Mark Letestu: Forward for the Edmonton Oilers
* Zach Aston-Reese: Forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins
* Jimmy Hayes: Forward for the Boston Bruins
Figure Skating: Grace and Precision
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is also a popular destination for figure skaters. The arena has a dedicated figure skating rink, complete with a sound system and mirrors for practice. Skaters of all levels, from beginners to advanced competitors, can take advantage of the arenas excellent facilities and coaching staff.
Local Stars Shine
Several local figure skaters have achieved great success at Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena. Notable examples include:
* Gracie Gold: Olympic medalist and four-time U.S. national champion
* Mirai Nagasu: Olympic medalist and two-time U.S. national champion
* Ashley Wagner: Olympic medalist and three-time U.S. national champion
Public Skating: Fun for All Ages
Public skating sessions are a great way for families and individuals to enjoy the ice. Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena offers public skating sessions on weekends and select weekdays. The arena provides skate rentals for those who dont have their own skates.
Birthday Parties and Events
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is also a popular venue for birthday parties and other special events. The arena offers a variety of party packages that include ice skating, food, and drinks.
Learn-to-Skate Programs: Building Skills from Scratch
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena offers a variety of learn-to-skate programs for all ages and skill levels. These programs are designed to teach the fundamentals of skating, from basic balance and coordination to advanced skating techniques.
Success Stories
Many skaters have started their journey on the ice at Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena. Some notable examples include:
* Ethan Maxwell: Competed in the 2022 Winter Olympics
* Gabriella Papadakis: Olympic medalist and five-time world champion
* Guillaume Cizeron: Olympic medalist and five-time world champion
Ice Hockey Tournaments: A Test of Skill
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena hosts a variety of ice hockey tournaments throughout the year. These tournaments attract teams from all over the region, providing opportunities for local players to compete against top competition.
Economic Impact
Ice hockey tournaments have a significant economic impact on the Mt. Lebanon community. According to a study by the Sports Management Network, tournaments held at Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena generate over $1 million in revenue for local businesses.
Ice Shows: A Spectacular Showcase
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is also a venue for ice shows and performances. These shows feature talented skaters from the local area and beyond, showcasing their skills and artistry on the ice.
Community Involvement
Ice shows at Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena provide a unique opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a shared experience. The shows often feature local performers and raise funds for local charities.
Sustainability: Protecting the Ice
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is committed to sustainability and protecting the environment. The arena uses energy-efficient lighting and refrigeration systems, and it recycles waste to minimize its carbon footprint.
Green Initiatives
In 2022, Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena installed a new solar panel system that generates over 20% of the arenas electricity needs. This investment in renewable energy helps to reduce the arenas carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
Accessibility: Skating for All
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is committed to making skating accessible to everyone in the community. The arena offers a variety of adaptive skating programs for individuals with disabilities.
Inclusion and Diversity
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena welcomes skaters of all abilities and backgrounds. The arenas adaptive skating programs provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience the joy of skating.
Conclusion
Mt. Lebanon Ice Arena is more than just a building; it is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of ice-related activities for people of all ages. Whether youre a hockey player, a figure skater, or simply looking for a fun way to stay active, the arena has something for you. The arenas commitment to excellence, sustainability, and accessibility makes it a valuable asset to the Mt. Lebanon community.
