The day we have all been waiting for, has finally arrived. The Steinbach Pistons are getting a new home thanks to the hard work of the Southeast Events Centre group and the City of Steinbach.
The big funding announcement was made Monday afternoon where Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen shared that our provincial and federal governments would be contributing the requested $17.5 million to the project. This is truly an exciting day not only for the Pistons organization but the City of Steinbach and southeast region. This $42.5 million facility will be more than just a new home for the Pistons. It will be a regional hub for recreational, cultural, and social events with its many different capabilities.
“Pure excitement and relief that this is finally about to become a reality,” were the words of Head Coach and General Manager Paul Dyck following the big news.
The Pistons currently play out of the esteemed Centennial Arena at the T.G Smith Centre which was constructed in 1967. Although many great memories were made in this building, Dyck says he certainly welcome the news of a new home for the Pistons organization.
“I loved playing minor hockey in our old barn, I have amazing memories watching the Huskies back in 79, will never forget our fans during our championship runs in 2013 and 2018, but it’s time to turn the page and move into a first-class facility.”
Dyck adds the new facility will create a better game day experience for fans as seating, temperature, and sightlines will all be improved. “Our desire would be to host national events and we believe this facility will open the doors to do so,” he shares. Dyck says these events would present considerable economic spinoffs for Steinbach’s hospitality industry. He feels a new building with a few amenities can also enhance the Pistons’ recruiting process.
The new home of the Pistons will include full bowl seating for approximately 2,500 people including the potential of upper level private/box suites. Official drawings have not been completed, but initial concepts show a spacious area dedicated to the Pistons, featuring a large player lounge, dressing room, dry locker area, access to the walking track for pre-game warm up and sufficient office space for staff.
The Pistons will still play a minimum of two seasons in the Centennial arena but for all involved in the organization, the countdown is on.
“I am so thankful for the work that has been put in for many years by strong leaders to get us to this point,” adds Dyck, “I will be impatiently waiting for that first game!”
Sales and Marketing Director, Jamie Roy, echoes Dyck’s thoughts and emphasizes what this new facility means for Pistons fans and season ticket holders.
“No more sitting on 2×6’s!”