DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation to build a new, one-of-a-kind ice rink facility in Castle Pines in 2020.
What began in 2011 as a way to honor a fallen teammate has since blossomed into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation has become a resource for families in need and makes a difference in the hockey community, with many of those impacted being with and without disabilities. At DAWG Nation, its mission is that every ice hockey player—regardless of skill level or ability—should have the chance to "Play Hard. Play Fair. Give Back."
And one of the ways the foundation hopes to accomplish that mission is through the construction of a new ice rink facility.
Rendering of the state-of-the-art, three-sheet ice rink. Courtesy of DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation (website)
A plan for a three-sheet ice complex in Castle Pines is currently underway, with a goal of breaking ground on October 1, 2020. In a statement, Martin Richardson, CEO and President of DAWG Nation, wrote:
"Our reputation for quality and caring has led to this exciting moment. We will design, build and operate the nation’s first multi-sheet hockey arena intended to support both disabled and able-bodied athletes."
The ice hockey rink will be located just off I-25 and Castle Pines Parkway on a plot of land that was donated by the City of Castle Pines.
This one-of-a-kind ice rink facility will be home to the DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation, along with its recreational hockey programs; Colorado Sled Hockey and its tournaments; opportunities for disabled veterans; youth and high school hockey programs, potentially CHSAA; City of Castle Pines and Douglas County recreational programs; and various health and wellness-related tenants.
Richardson also told CBS4, "The most important part of this rink is it puts able-bodied and disabled on the same playing field. It levels the playing field of disabled sports. The entire facility is going to be designed with everybody in mind. Not just the ice surfaces and benches, but the locker room."
It's been estimated that the costs will be close to $34 million, and that's even with the donated land. And while there is support from some big names in Colorado, including former Avs player Milan Hejduk, the DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation could use your help fulfill its vision.
Donate to the DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation's Ice Rink Fund HERE
OR
Mail a check donation to:
DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation
PO Box 182
Indian Hills, CO 80454
For more information on the rink, call (720) 432-9471 or email the DAWG Nation at [email protected].
If you'd like to learn more about the DAWG Nation Hockey Foundation, how to become a sponsor or volunteer, and more, visit its website. And don't forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments below.