Memorial Arena nominated for Kraft Hockeyville

Chatham Memorial Arena has been nominated for another chance to win $250,000 and to host an NHL game.

The nationwide Kraft Hockeyville contest opened on January 1, with the Chatham arena already receiving a nomination.

The “Nominate and Rally” phase of the contest will run through February 19, during which supporters can make submissions and post on social media to earn points for the local community. Judges will then review all nominations to select the finalists. The top four communities will go head-to-head in a round of voting to determine the winner.

Memorial Arena was a finalist during the Hockeyville contest in 2015, falling short to the Panorama Recreation Centre in North Saanich, British Columbia. However, the Memorial Arena did receive $100,000 for placing second, which was used to purchase a new digital outdoor sign, automatic doors, and heated spectator areas at the rink.

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has previously suggested selling the local arena as part of proposed redevelopment plans for downtown Chatham, which could include a massive 4,000-seat entertainment complex that would also serve as an arena.

The top four finalists for Kraft Hockeyville will be announced on March 11, with voting to begin on March 31. The grand prize winner will be named on April 1. To submit a nomination story for Memorial Arena, click here.