Kraft Hockeyville USA announced its four finalists Sunday afternoon, which unfortunately didn’t include the Rockville Ice Arena. There is good news, however, as the rink will still receive $10,000 in arena upgrades for being one of the 10 finalists.
Shortly after the nomination, I spoke with Joël Katuala about why he nominated Rockville. “I love hockey and would love to see the game grow in the DMV area and NHL players playing a game in your community is something that would grow the game,” he said. “I also love Rockville Ice Arena and the guys who work there. They’re all extremely friendly and helpful and want to see the game grow in the area as well.”
Despite the loss, Katuala still sees a silver lining. “Being mentioned as one of the top 10 rinks in the US and being on national television, that’s pretty special, and I believe that will drive more people to the rink.”
I believe it will too. I grew up learning to skate there and my high school hockey team plays there along with many other schools in Montgomery County, Md. It is my hope that by the time I graduate college, that the DMV will be recognized for the great hockey community that it is. This nomination was just the first step for the development of hockey in the DMV. It can only get better from here.
The rinks still in contention are:
- Rushmore Thunderdome – Rapid City, SD
- MAYSA Arena – Minot, ND
- Lakeview Arena – Marquette, MI
- Twin Ponds Family Complex – Harrisburg, PA
