Ontario Hockey League (OHL) exhibition play is another step closer to coming to Watford's new East Lambton Community Complex this summer.
The preseason contest between the London Knights and Erie Otters would take place August 29 and act as a fundraiser for upgrades to the Brooke-Alvinston-Inwood Community Centre Complex.
Brooke-Alvinston Fundraising and Marketing Assistant Jill Joris made the pitch to Warwick Township Council for an in-kind contribution at a recent meeting.
"When we were offered this opportunity as a fundraiser, we immediately thought of sharing this high-level hockey event with our neighbours in Warwick, as our floor will not be completed until October 1," said Joris. "This event will bring some high-level hockey and community pride and regional attention to Warwick."
Work at Alvinston's rink will include a new floor, dehumidifier, and compressor which is expected to cost around $2 million and will get underway in April.
It's a cost-share grant, meaning the municipality gets up to $1 million from the province and it contributes an equal amount.
Joris expects the game to heighten community spirit and boost local economic activity through visitors, vendors, and event traffic.
They've approached some service groups to help out.
"They would also earn funds for their community projects including the Watford Optimist Club to request their support in addition to others to assist with the meals," Joris said. "Their volunteer capacity and community presence would complement the township's support and help ensure a smooth and successful experience for all attendees."
The idea received a 'thumbs up' from councillors, including Warwick Township Mayor Todd Case.
"I do think it's a great way for us to help support our neighbours to the south," said Case. "And it's also, I agree with what Jill said, I think it's good for our community as well. So this is a good example of what communities can do to work together to help each other out."
Now, the teams need to approve the boards and glass to make sure they're up to standards.
There could also be a player meet and greet afterwards and they would use the upper hall and kitchen at the facility.
Warwick Township Parks and Recreation Manager Ryan Chamney said he'll do all he can to help out, noting it shouldn't be any problem.
"It does certainly sound like an exciting initiative and you know I'm certainly happy to help in terms of facility logistics and planning and wherever any assistance you may need from us," said Chamney. "Happy to help on that front. In terms of the dates and the facilities, the items that you mentioned, they would certainly be available on the date in which you guys would like to host this event."
The Brooke-Alvinston-Inwood Community Centre Complex is well-used, with over 20,000 annual visits.
Public fundraising opportunities to support upgrades at the arena will be shared to the Alvinston Arena Floor Fund Facebook page.
