Our History
The Heart of Our Community: The New Prague Ice Arena Story
A Vision Built by the Community
In the mid-1990s, New Prague was growing at a record pace, and the need for a dedicated community hub was undeniable. With local hockey and figure skating programs surging in popularity, ice time was becoming scarce. Driven by a shared commitment to our youth and local athletes, a group of dedicated volunteers formed a Task Force in early 1995 to turn the dream of a multi-purpose facility into a reality.
From Groundbreaking to Game Day
What started as a grassroots movement quickly gained momentum. Through a combination of the state's Mighty Ducks Grant and the incredible generosity of local businesses and private donors, the project was funded without placing a financial burden on local schools or the city. In August 1996, we broke ground, and by December 1, 1996, the first puck was dropped in a high school matchup that marked the beginning of a new era for New Prague, Montgomery, and Lonsdale.
More Than Just an Arena
For nearly three decades, we have operated as a non-profit organization dedicated to serving our community. Recently renamed the New Prague Ice Arena to better reflect our core mission, we provide a premier home for:
- New Prague High School (NPHS) Boys and Girls Hockey
- New Prague Hockey Association (NPHA)
- New Prague Figure Skating Club (NPFSC)
Beyond the ice, our facility has served as a versatile venue for trade shows, local gatherings, and regional tournaments.
Investing in the Future
We aren't just maintaining—we’re growing. Recent expansions have added a specialized dryland training area, new locker rooms, and increased storage to ensure our athletes have the innovative tools they need to reach elite levels of competition.
At the New Prague Ice Arena, our mission remains the same as it was in 1995: to provide a high-standard facility that empowers our athletes, supports their families, and remains a proud gathering place for the entire community.
Thank you for being part of our story.