Brock: Sunderland arena grand opening set for Dec. 19

The Sunderland Memorial Arena renovation is in its final stages, and the Township of Brock says the grand opening is set for Dec. 19, 2026, with the first tournament to follow on Dec. 20, the Township says.

Before the arena can open, life-safety and Ontario Building Code requirements must be met so the Chief Building Official can issue an occupancy permit, the Township says. Only then can staff train on the new ice plant equipment, install the ice and complete the remaining finishing touches.

After an on-site meeting with the Sunderland Lions Club, Brock Minor Hockey Association and Sunderland Ringette Association, the Township says the two-arena ice schedule will continue until Jan. 2, 2027, when a full three-arena schedule takes effect.

Mayor Jubb said he was "excited that the grand opening is set for the 19th of December and the first tournament will take place on the 20th of December," thanking residents for their patience and understanding as the Township works through the final stage of the project.

"Brock Minor Hockey Association is excited to see the Sunderland Memorial Arena nearing completion and looks forward to welcoming our players and families back to this important community facility," said Matt Gross, president of the Brock Minor Hockey Association.

The Sunderland Lions Club and its charitable foundation worked for some 15 years to bring the project to fruition, helping secure federal and provincial funding and raising the final $1 million needed from residents and businesses, said Ralph Maleus, Lions Foundation chair.