Burlington needs your help to get Central Rec Centre (Arena) a $250 thousand dollar upgrade. Click "read more" for details, a history of Central and voting instructions. Every point counts!
Central Arena & BLOMHA: A Shared Legacy of Hockey, Community, and Heart
For nearly six decades, Central Recreation Centre (Central Arena) has stood as one of Burlington’s most iconic community spaces. Since opening its doors in 1968, the arena has been far more than just ice and boards—it has been a gathering place where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and lifelong memories are made.
For BLOMHA, Central Arena holds a particularly special place. Founded in 1951 by members of the Burlington Central Lions Club and the Optimist Club of Burlington, BLOMHA is one of the city’s oldest and longest-serving youth organizations. For generations, Central Arena has been one of the key homes where BLOMHA players have learned the game, embraced teamwork, and grown both on and off the ice.
Today, BLOMHA proudly serves over 1500 registered players, supported by dedicated volunteers and the operation of more than 1240 games each season. As a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization governed by Hockey Canada, the Ontario Hockey Federation, and the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario, BLOMHA’s mission has always been clear: to provide safe, inclusive, and development-focused hockey opportunities for all youth in Burlington—regardless of skill level.
That mission comes to life every day in arenas like Central.
Central Arena has witnessed countless milestones—first goals, championship celebrations, early-morning practices, and packed stands filled with proud families. Beyond minor hockey, it has hosted lacrosse, figure skating, major tournaments, and historic moments, including appearances by legends such as Wayne Gretzky, who skated there as a nine-year-old during the 1970 Golden Horseshoe Tournament. It has even doubled as a concert venue, welcoming artists like Gordon Lightfoot and The Ramones, reinforcing its role as a true community hub.
Now, Burlington has an opportunity to ensure this legacy continues.
Help Nominate Central Arena for Kraft Hockeyville!
The Kraft Hockeyville competition celebrates the rinks that mean the most to their communities. Winning would bring $250 000 in funding for arena repairs or modest upgrades, along with the chance to host an NHL pre-season game—a moment that would inspire the next generation of BLOMHA players and hockey fans alike.
The competition begins with the Nomination and Rally Phase, where community stories, photos, and memories help earn points.
You can support Central Arena by:
- Submitting a written or video story (10 points)
- Sharing a photo (3 points)
- Reacting to stories on the arena’s nomination page (1 point)
Submissions can be sent here.
Every memory—from early-morning practices to championship nights—helps tell the story of why Central Arena matters.
For BLOMHA families past and present, Central Arena represents everything minor hockey stands for: opportunity, community, dedication, and love for the game.
Let’s rally together and show Canada why Central Arena deserves to be the next Kraft Hockeyville.
Click here to view Central's nomination page. See what other people have submitted, or submit your own.
Click here to learn more about the nomination process, what Central Arena means to Burlington and how you can contribute.
Article & Graphics courtesy of Jeff Hall at www.impactdesign.ca
