The Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP) first came together in 2013 following a hockey meeting where the need for another ice surface was discussed. “After the meeting, a group of individuals came together to sit down and we started planning how we could make this dream a reality,” MCRP Chairperson Jesse Reis said.
The group began with approximately 10 people and has since grown to 15 members; however, they are always looking for new volunteers to come on board and help with the organization of their five fundraising events that are held each year; street hockey tournament, TUFF Run, 3 on 3 tournament, 80’s cabaret and their hockey draft. Those interested in joining the MCRP can visit www.mcrp.ca.
“We have worked closely with the City of Martensville on this project and we even have Council members on our committee now too. They have been instrumental with the project as they have committed $6.5 million to go towards the new facility,” added Reis. Although much money has been raised throughout the past five years, there are still funds needed in order to bring it to fruition. The MCRP themselves have raised an incredible $300,000 through events they have organized and donations from people and businesses in Martensville and the surrounding area.
“The MCRP have provided the vision, energy and momentum for this multipurpose facility project. By having a group like this form, organize and be so active in putting in real time, to dedicate real dollars says so much. They believe this project is going to be such a benefit and legacy for the community, a community the MCRP is proud to be a part of,” Dillon Shewchuk, City of Martensville Community Economic Development Manager stated. Shewchuk also noted that having an active partner like the MCRP involved, it makes this project a priority. “As a community, it shows that we do have capacity to do positive things and we can shape what happens here and we are not always reliant on outside sources or influences on what happens in Martensville.” With the money that the group has raised to date, Shewchuk states that “those dollars are important as it has helped put this project in motion and will help leverage additional dollars.”
Recently, the group wrapped their annual 3 on 3 tournament for ages 6-18, which brings in over 400 athletes from Martensville and surrounding areas. “We have a big draw from throughout the region for the three week tournament. It is a great warm up for hockey season and all proceeds from the event go towards helping the MCRP. We find that it has been growing each year and it has become a really well run event,” Reis explained. Participants agree, which is why the slogan for the tournament is ‘Best Organized Shinny Around’.
The 3 on 3 tournament is one of the biggest fundraisers the group hosts; however, they haven’t forgotten the adults of Martensville. On October 26th, the MCRP will be hosting their 80’s cabaret at the North Ridge Community Centre. This fun-filled evening will consist of a late lunch and the band Stuck in the 80’s. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased via their website. “One of the things that we are really proud of is not just raising the funds, but holding events that can bring people together in the community. It is a great way to meet new people and come out to have a great time.”
It is no secret that there is a great need for a new sports facility, not just for the residents of Martensville, but for the entire region. “All of the communities in the area are growing and it is tougher to find ice surface. One of the things that we ask is that people help spread the word about the importance of the need for this facility and if they have opportunities to talk to businesses about contributing, contact their local government by writing letters and share information with your friends and family about who we are, what we do and the events that we host. Spreading the word any way they are able to can help make this dream a reality. It is coming, our city is committed, and now it is just about getting different levels of commitment,” added Reis.
For anyone interested in donating, you can visit www.mcrp.ca, or contact a member of the group to find out how you can help sponsor one of their events. There are different levels of sponsorship that come with different levels of recognition.
