No Ice, But Bothwell Arena Is Still A Hub For Community Sports

The ice might be out for the season, but the Bothwell Area Sports Centre is becoming a community hub for sports and recreation all year round.

Some of the activities taking place both inside and out of Bothwell Arena this summer include pickleball, lacrosse, soccer, ball hockey, horseshoes, roller skating, and fitness for seniors.

Ball hockey for ages 3 to adult started April 9 and runs every Monday evening for 10 weeks, spring lacrosse is for ages 7-12 and runs every Wednesday for those same 10 weeks. Registration for these programs is $40 each, or $30 for Bothwell Area Recreation Advisory Committee (BARAC) members. Memberships are $50 for singles and $75 for families.

Soccer is a new initiative and runs every Thursday from May 17 until August 2, for ages 4-12. It utilizes the green space adjacent to the arena and features a nice treed area with picnic tables for spectators. This is pick up soccer and is free to all children who sign up.

The BARAC is running a recreation program in the arena every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7-9pm. There are 5 pickleball courts and equipment, ball hockey, and a senior fitness room for members. There are also soccer nets and balls as well as horseshoe pits on the grounds. This program began May 1 and runs until August 16. People can drop in for $5/night or BARAC members can enjoy all Tuesday and Thursday programs with their memberships.

Another popular activity at Bothwell Arena has been roller skating, which is held one Friday per month over the summer. Young and old have been coming from all over Southwestern Ontario for this unique event.

As well, a 4 day lacrosse camp is planned for July with assistance from the Wallaceburg Red Devils organization.