The Manchester Ice & Event Centre grew out of the desire to create an affordable, accessible, high quality skating rink and event facility in McCall where both youth and adults could enjoy year-round activities. The facility hosts, sponsors, and produces programs that bring cultural, recreational, and entertaining opportunities to McCall residents, as well as visitors. The facility has become a hub of activity in downtown McCall, and provides significant economic value to the community.
After his death, a foundation was formed that established the Rich Sabala Memorial Invitational Golf Classic to honor his memory and support projects that reflect the affection he felt for the community. The result was the Rich Sabala Athletic Complex, completed in 1996, which is the major sports venue for the McCall-Donnelly School District. This rink was the second project of the Sabala Foundation. The aim from the beginning was to provide a high-quality facility that complemented the natural beauty of the area and which would provide a gathering place for the community for years to come.
The leadership and effort of the Richard Sabala Foundation influenced the monetary contributions for the rink, which came from private individuals and businesses, a state grant and corporate foundations. In addition, numerous community fund raising activities and volunteers contributed their invaluable time and services to achieve the $6.2 million objective of completing the Manchester Ice & Event Centre on July 2, 2003.
Located in the center of town, across the street from Payette Lake, the facility houses a regulation NHL sized hockey rink, grandstand and mezzanine seating.
Manchester Ice & Event Centre is a fun, healthy gathering place for the whole community and one of the area’s premier entertainment venues.
We support the well-being of McCall residents of all ages through Learn to Skate, private lessons, hockey leagues, curling, trade shows, private parties, and special on- and off-ice events.
By drawing visitors to McCall throughout the year, the Centre also helps strengthen the local economy.
We welcome partnerships with groups and organizations that share our goals for the facility and the community.