The Sarnia Sting have released further details about new and improved restaurant, concessions, fitness and retail facilities at Progressive Auto Sales Arena (PASA).
It's part of $2.25 million worth of upgrades the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) team's ownership has made into the facility ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The team said the ongoing work was made possible through the private investment made by Sarnia Sting ownership and a strategic partnership with Levy Canada.
In a news release, Sting Owner, President and Governor Mark Guy said he's hopeful the investment demonstrates the team's commitment not only to Sting fans, but to the city of Sarnia, Lambton County and also to every resident and visitor who uses the important community facility.
“On behalf of my partners Ryan Finch and David Legwand, along with our food and beverage partners at Levy, we are incredibly excited to make this investment into our home,” said Guy. “Progressive Auto Sales Arena is a fantastic venue for OHL hockey and an important gathering place for our community. We hope everyone who visits the facility will share in our pride and excitement as these renovations create a more modern, welcoming and enjoyable experience for Sting fans and community users alike.”
Guy said PASA will feature a state-of-the-art kitchen and a completely redesigned front-of-house restaurant.
The restaurant, located between Rinks 1 and 2, will be known as District 94, a subtle tribute to 1994, the year the Sting arrived in Sarnia from Newmarket.
There will be improved menu offerings and more efficient service before, during and after home games. The team is also looking to extend restaurant service beyond Sting game nights to accommodate local minor sports associations and recreational leagues.
The new kitchen and restaurant will also feature more than 19 large-screen televisions and a professionally designed sound system.
The Sting also plan to feature live post-game music following every Friday night home game.
Significant improvements have also been made to concession service on both the main concourse and lower lobby.
The main concourse will feature two new walk-through concession areas, designed to reduce wait times and improve service throughout the arena.
The Pit Stop, located in the lower lobby, will offer traditional arena favourites and will operate during peak use times.
Levy Canada Regional Vice President Derek Rewbury said they're proud to partner with the Sarnia Sting on this significant investment.
“At Levy, we take great pride in delivering exceptional hospitality experiences throughout the sports and entertainment industry,” said Rewbury. “We see tremendous potential in this facility and look forward to working alongside the Sting to elevate the food and beverage experience for their fans and all community groups that use the arena. We are fully committed to this partnership and excited about what we can accomplish together.”
Beginning October 2, the store previously known as The Honeypot will reopen as Sting Authentics, presented by Team Outfitters.
It will feature a refreshed interior and exterior, expanded product offerings and new monthly promotions.
The Sting's home opener is taking place on Friday, October 2 against the Soo Greyhounds.
You can hear every game on Big Country 1039FM.
