Conditions permitting, the Winthrop Rink plans to open its 2023-24 season on Saturday (Oct. 28) for season pass holders, and on Sunday (Oct. 29) for the general public. Winter programs are expected to begin on Monday (Oct. 30).
Offerings include youth hockey, a girls’ development program for ages 13 and up, learn to skate sessions for ages 5 and up, learn to play hockey sessions for ages 5 and up, and the Methow Hockey League for adult players.
Fourth-graders living in Okanogan County can skate free all season, including free rental skates and a free Youth Season Pass. The program is made possible thanks to a grant from the Confluence Health & Wenatchee Valley Medical Group Community Partnership Fund.
The rink also hosts youth and adult hockey tournaments throughout its season, drawing teams from around the region.
According to a newsletter by the Winthrop Rink, the intent was to begin “ice loading” this week. It takes about a week to build ice and train Zamboni drivers before the rink can open, according to the newsletter.
Season passes allow access to all public skating periods and other events. All season passes come with a complimentary Tri-Winter Pass (one free day pass to each of the Loup Loup Ski Bowl, Methow Trails Nordic ski trails and Winthrop Rink skate session). For information, visit https://winthroprink.org.
In June of this year, the Winthrop Rink named Ryan Bell as its new executive director, replacing longtime director Steve Bondi.
