Mastering the Ice: A Look into Stride Place's Facility Supervisor, James Ward's Ice Maintenance Expertise
Stride Place's Facility Supervisor, James Ward, is the mastermind behind the pristine ice at the Portage Terriers games. With over 15 years of experience, Ward's job requires a blend of science, tradition, and teamwork to ensure the ice is game-ready. The process involves meticulous scraping, edging, and hot water application to create a smooth surface for the players.
At the start of each season, the ice rink is nothing but bare concrete. Ward and his team meticulously layer and paint the ice, using approximately 40 bags of powdered white paint and 140 gallons of water per coat. The delicate balance of temperature, paint, and water is crucial for maintaining the quality of the ice, especially in challenging weather conditions.
Ward dedicates up to 20 hours a week to ice care, focusing on edging, scraping, and resurfacing to maintain consistency. The corners of the rink pose a particular challenge due to the ice buildup caused by the Zamboni's slower pace. Precision is key when it comes to painting the logos and lines on the ice, with measurements and visual cues ensuring everything meets regulation standards.
The Zamboni plays a crucial role in ice maintenance, cutting, collecting, and smoothing the surface with each pass. Ward's responsibilities extend beyond the ice rink to the Shindleman Aquatic Centre, where his team ensures the water is safe for swimmers through regular testing and chemical balancing. Ward's family legacy in rink work spans generations, with his grandfather and father also involved in the industry.
For Ward, the camaraderie and teamwork at Stride Place are what make his job fulfilling. The collaborative effort to maintain the ice and surrounding facilities ensures that Portage la Prairie's ice remains pristine game after game. The dedication and behind-the-scenes work of Ward and his team are essential in upholding the high standards of the rink and aquatic center.