The Fort Frances Lakers have asked the town to consider replacing the aging sound system in the Ice for Kids (IFK) rink at the Memorial Sports Centre, which, according to Lakers President Sarah Freeman-Kivimaki, is currently unusable.
The current sound system has been in use at IFK since the construction of the sports centre in 2000 and has been used by the Lakers since the local Junior A Hockey team was founded in 2009. Before their time, it was used by two sets of predecessors, the Fort Frances Borderland Thunder and later, the Jr. Sabres.
“It’s basically unusable right now,” Freeman-Kivimaki said. “It was newly installed when Ice for Kids was new, but it’s about 26 years old now. It’s seen some great use, but it totally needs to be replaced and updated.”
Freeman-Kivimaki estimated that it was about three years ago when the audio quality began deteriorating, and that it has now reached a point where words from the speakers are unrecognizable. During recent use of the ice, the team has had to rely on rental equipment from third-party sources to provide sound during its games.
The concern was brought forward to town council during Monday evening’s meeting on Sept. 28 in a letter from Lakers board member Christine Cridland, requesting that some action from the town be taken.
“Throughout our home games, the quality of the current sound system has become a significant concern,” the letter reads. “Announcements, player introductions, sponsor recognition, game information and safety messages are often difficult for spectators to hear or understand due to poor audio clarity. In addition, several speakers appear to be blown or malfunctioning, resulting in inconsistent sound coverage throughout the arena.”
“As an organization, we strive to provide an exciting and professional game-day experience for our fans, sponsors, volunteers, officials and visiting teams. A reliable, high-quality sound system is an essential part of that experience. It not only enhances the atmosphere but also ensures important announcements can be communicated clearly to everyone in attendance.”
Community Services and Facilities Manager Craig Miller said there are currently plans to implement sound systems in the Memorial Sports Centre’s pool and gym. If budget permits, Miller said it could be possible to look into combining work for the existing IFK sound system into the finances required for the other projects at the location this year.
“In the capital budget this year, there is an allocated amount in the carryover,” Miller said. “It was intended for a sound system in the pool and fitness area, as well as a few other upgrades throughout the facility.”
“It looks like there’s still some room in that budget that I think we can most likely accommodate sound system upgrades in the IFK arena.”
All members of council agreed on this route as a potential solution to the sound issues.
If upgrading the current sound system of IFK proves to be too costly, Miller said it will be instead considered for the 2027 budget.
