The Great One opens a Great Facility
On Sunday September 29th, 2013, the greatest hockey player of all time was in town to cut the ribbon and unveil a statue at the entrance to the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, in Brantford, Ontario–his home town. Built by Ball Construction, the newly renovated and re-constructed complex includes 4-ice rinks (all NHL size), 2-swimming pools (including a water fun area), gymnasium, fitness centre and various community resources.
On-hand were numerous dignitaries, including Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, Federal MP Gary Goodyear, Brant MPP Dave Levac, and Master of Ceremonies, Brantford Mayor, Chris Friel. After a series of speeches, the street sign on which the building is situated was unveiled as Walter Gretzky Boulevard, much to the surprise and delight of Wayne’s father, Walter.
Mayor Friel also took a moment to recognize the key organizations that made the building possible, such as the architectural firms of CS&P and MMMC. Of special mention was the team from Ball Construction, who not only built the facility but donated the concrete footings that support the Gretzky statue, created by internationally renowned Sculptor, Brad Oldham, of Texas.
“This building would not have been possible without the dedication of the team at Ball Construction” noted Brantford Mayor Chris Friel. “Their expertise and dedication made it possible.”
The crowd of over 6,000 people cheered as Wayne Gretzky cut the ribbon to officially open the building then proceeded to unveil the 14ft bronze statue depicting him holding the Stanley Cup high above the heads of statues of his mother and father and young Wayne looking on.
“This facility caters to everyone from kids to players, to parents and grandparents. You’re going to get a lot of people who come to see this to see about building something like this in their hometowns,” noted the Great One as he thanked fans and families for their love and support.
Fine out more at: https://www.ballcon.com/index.php/2012/06/wayne-gretzky-sports-centre
