TACOMA, Wash. — There might not be ice at Tacoma’s Verlo Playfield, but hockey is still coming to this community.
The Seattle Kraken is teaming up with the NHL and other local partners to do just that, with a new project to revamp a multi-sport court at the Tacoma park.
The Seattle Kraken's One Roof Foundation, the NHL, Virginia Mason Franciscan are investing $225,000 to refurbish the Verlo Playfield’s courts in conjunction with Metro Parks Tacoma. The renovation includes adding multi-sport hoop goals, sports equipment and a new mural.
"Trying to expand the narrative of whose included in the game so that it really is a game that everyone in our community feels that it's their game and that we are their team," said Mari Horita, the executive director of One Roof Foundation.
Soon, play courts at Verlo Playfield will get a major facelift. This project helps break the ice - and barriers - when it comes to hockey.
"How do we go out into communities where hockey hasn't been and work with the community on their terms and introduce the game in a way that works for them?" Horita said. "This is an example of that."
This weekend's NHL Winter Classic is part of a plan to grow the game of hockey in the Seattle area, and the professional sports team is expanding its reach for the community's benefit.
“Super cool that they're trying to get more hockey in the area, I'd love hockey ever since I was little,” said 12-year-old Caleb Mills. “So I think it's super cool that kids get to grow up with this in their neighborhood."
Caleb has been a huge fan of hockey throughout his life, he said, having played the sport for more than half of it. "A lot of kids, like you said, don't know what it is and I'd like them to experience what it is and maybe get a taste of it and this is going to help a lot by doing it," said Caleb.
Caleb’s mother, Leslie, said when Caleb’s off the ice, he's playing hockey in the streets. So, she said she is thrilled for a much safer option for her son and his friends to play.
"Inspiring youth to get out and play and have a place where they can come to. Get some exercise, that preventative health they were talking about is so awesome," said Leslie.
Construction for the new courts is scheduled for early 2024 and is expected to be complete by summer or fall next year.