'No sticks, no pucks’ signs go up at Tillsonburg outdoor rink

Playing hockey on an outdoor rink is a Canadian pastime – but it’s not allowed on Tillsonburg’s rink during the COVID-19 lockdown, town officials say.

Chris Abbott
Jan 13, 2021  •  3 days ago  •  2 minute read
The town of Tillsonburg put up signs Tuesday to remind residents that playing hockey and ringette isn't allowed at the J.L. Scott McLean Outdoor Recreation Pad in Tillsonburg. (Submitted)

Playing hockey on an outdoor pad might be a Canadian pastime, but it’s not allowed on Tillsonburg’s rink during the COVID-19 lockdown, town officials say.

The town posted signs Tuesday morning to remind residents the J.L. Scott Outdoor Recreation Pad is available for skating only.

That means no sticks, no pucks and no ringette rings.

During a recent social media live-stream, Tillsonburg Mayor Stephen Molnar said town officials are keeping the rink open during the provincial lockdown, but users must abide by Ontario’s rules for gathering sizes and physical distancing.

“I remind members of the public, again, especially the adults, that there is no sticks, no pucks and no scrimmages,” he said. “I encourage us all to play by the rules and access will remain available. Create additional health concerns and … the rink’s operational capacity could be jeopardized.”

The province does permit use of outdoor rinks during the COVID-19 lockdown that began Dec. 26, but playing hockey or ringette is not permitted, said Chris Baird, Tillsonburg’s director of recreation.

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“The outdoor rink has created a real buzz, that’s for sure. The challenge we’ve had, of course, is that a lot of people are out playing hockey.”

It’s a Canadian pastime, Baird noted, but slap shots and flying pucks create conflict with other skaters.

“We’re getting constant calls from people saying it’s very dangerous, or my child got hit or almost hit. I know our bylaw officers and our OPP stop by routinely to make sure that (no sticks, no pucks) is being enforced.

“My staff, we flood the ice three times a day, and we keep an eye on it, but we’re not here at night, and this is sometimes when the problem is.”

Baird said four signs went up Tuesday morning.

Town officials don’t want to be heavy handed but do want users to respect the rules, he said.

“You can’t play hockey, but you sure can work on your skating and get out there and enjoy it.”

There is also a maximum capacity for the outdoor rink, which has also not been adhered to, Baird said.

“We’d really hate to take that rink offline because it’s proven to be really important.”

cabbott@postmedia.com