Province Supports the Creation of a Hockey Heritage Centre

The Town of Windsor will soon be the hockey destination in the province.

MLA Chuck Porter, on behalf of Economic Development Minister Angus MacIsaac, today, April 15, announced a $200,000 provincial investment in Hockeyland, an International Hockey Heritage Centre in Windsor.

"The history of hockey runs long and deep in Windsor, so this is the perfect community for such a centre," said Mr. Porter.

"The government of Nova Scotia is committed to investing in rural communities. This hockey heritage centre will be terrific for hockey fans throughout the region and the world, attracting upwards of 150,000 visitors each year."

The nearly 40,000-square-foot centre will be a one-of-a-kind entertainment complex that preserves the history, evolution and culture of hockey. A 10-metre-high galleria atrium will emphasize the game's international impact through interactive exhibits and an interpretive centre, and feature women and African Canadians in hockey.

"We are pleased the province is investing in this dynamic hockey heritage centre," says Wayne Russell, chair, Hockeyland board of directors and past president, Hockey Canada. "Hockeyland will allow visitors to experience Nova Scotia's passion for a game the world has come to love."

Ron MacLean, host of CBC's Hockey Night in Canada and Coaches' Corner, Mike McPhee, NHL Stanley Cup Winner and NHL all-star, and Therese Brisson, Canada's national women's hockey team veteran and two-time Olympic medal winner are some of the hockey enthusiasts who sit on the Hockeyland board of directors.

Also included are Hockey Canada board of governors, the Town of Windsor, the Municipality of West Hants, the MacDonnell Group, Bristol Group, RPM Productions, CanWest Global and Transcontinental Media.

The Hockeyland board of directors will seek private-sector sponsorships for construction and operation. Corporate partnerships and team donations are also encouraged at www.hockeyland.ca/home.html .