built around the rink for the spectators. Many had cold feet and hands, but by banging on the boards with their hands encouraging the team and stamping their feet to keep from freezing, they sur- vived.

The O’Leary team was called the O’Leary Maroons and the girls' team, O’Leary Maroon Sisters. Both these teams were very competi- tive and played many games throughout the Island, but in early years usually played against Alberton and Tignish.

In 1940, following a hockey game, fire broke out in a dressing room. This was a disaster as far as the young people were concerned. The games were played on Saturday night, and in early years the stores stayed open until 10 pm. or later, and employees interested in the hockey match or skating could hardly wait for the store to close. Saturday afternoon was open for skating and the rink would be full. Music was supplied and it was very enjoyable. Through the efforts of Bayfield Ellis and others the repairs were made and the rink contin- ued on until 1956 when the roof collapsed because of the weight of snow and ice.

By 1959, a new rink was built by Otis MacNeill, a carpenter, with men from twenty communities donating time, lumber and money to see its completion. It was officially opened on January 20, 1960. Trusses for the rink were purchased from the former St. Dunstan’s Arena in Charlottetown. The measurements of the building were 222’ X 90’ with an ice surface of 190’ X 70’.

On January 29, 1960, a Fancy Dress Carnival was held to cele- brate the opening. Grace MacLeod, Matron of Community Hospital, cut the ribbon while 600 people watched.

The year 1967 saw more improvements to the structure and pipes were installed to produce artificial ice which was ready for the 1968 winter season. At this time the name was changed to the Centennial Arena.

In 1979 the rink was extended to the north and a recreation room and kitchen facilities were built over the entrance, the canteen enlarged and an area upstairs was heated for spectators. This was completed in 1980.

In the fall of 1989, the directors of the Athletic Association, con- cerned with the age and deterioration of the rink, engaged a profes- sional consultant to provide an assessment and a direction to improve the structure. The consultant’s report illustrated the need to replace the rink structure. Meetings with the public resulted in a community commitment to replace the rink facility.

On May 21, 1990, the demolition of the old facility began, under

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