By 1808Delaware
Exciting developments are underway in Liberty Township as the Liberty Township / Powell YMCA moves forward with the construction of an outdoor street hockey rink. On February 27, city officials and community partners gathered to break ground on the project, marking the start of a venture that will bring more opportunities for affordable, accessible hockey to local children and families.
The rink will be located just behind the YMCA facility at 7798 N Liberty Rd. and will be the first of its kind among the 13 community centers operated by the YMCA of Central Ohio.
A Community Partnership Power Play
The project is a testament to the power of partnerships, bringing together multiple organizations committed to expanding youth sports in Powell. The street hockey rink is made possible by a $250,000 commitment from the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation and the NHL, working alongside the City of Powell, Liberty Township, and the YMCA of Central Ohio.
This initiative serves as a legacy project for the 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series, ensuring that the sport’s impact goes beyond the ice and into the heart of the community.
Top-Notch Features for Future Players
The new outdoor street hockey rink will feature:
- Durable boards for longevity and safety
- A high-quality playing surface designed for optimal gameplay
- Structured programming to introduce and develop hockey skills
The rink will be used for both casual play and organized programming, giving local youth an exciting new venue to build their skills.
Columbus Blue Jackets Bringing the Hockey Spirit
To ensure the community gets the most out of this new facility, the Columbus Blue Jackets will provide extensive hockey programming support and resources, including:
- “Try Hockey for Free” clinics to introduce kids to the game
- A structured hockey curriculum to teach fundamental skills
- Staff training to equip YMCA personnel with coaching expertise
- Equipment donations to make the sport more accessible
This effort aligns with the NHL’s and Blue Jackets Foundation’s mission to grow the game and provide affordable pathways to youth hockey participation.
Hockey on the Horizon
As construction moves forward, anticipation is building in Powell for the arrival of this new recreational destination. With support from local government, community leaders, and professional hockey organizations, this project is set to change the game for young athletes and families in the area.
Stay tuned for updates as Powell’s first-ever street hockey rink nears completion—where the next generation of hockey players may take their first shots.
Source, Photo: City of Powell
