The Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP) has raised over $1 million since they first came together to help raise money for a new rink in the community in 2015. Throughout the years, there have been numerous fundraisers and events held that have helped them accomplish this feat.
In March of 2020, the first ever Party on the Pond was held in Martensville and although successful, was limited to 250 people due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This event is a premier 3 on 3 pond hockey tournament that takes place over two days. “Despite the fact that it wasn’t as big as it could be, the event was a huge success,” organizer Jesse Reis said.
Last year the event was cancelled due to the pandemic; however, this year, the Party on the Pond Committee is looking forward to seeing everyone back out on the ice. “We think this will be a good break from everything that is going on. It is a great fundraiser for our group and we haven’t really been able to have any kind of event like this since early 2020. As much as it is our goal to raise funds, one of the things that we have been missing is the opportunity to get together as a community, so that’s something we are really excited about,” Reis added.
A group of local volunteers that have an invested interest in ensuring the addition of another rink in the community are the driving force behind this event. The Party on the Pond Committee works in partnership with the MCRP and all funds raised through this event go towards the addition of a new recreation facility in the community.
Party on the Pond will take place March 4-5 at North Ridge Community Centre and on the surrounding ponds. Teams of 4 will each play five games, beginning Friday evening and throughout the day on Saturday. On Friday night Comedian Kelly Taylor will perform and on Saturday night a cabaret featuring the band Seven Mile Sun will be performing.
“We encourage people to come on out and enjoy a great event. It is something for us all to rally around and something to bring people together.”
Teams can register, or individuals can purchase tickets online at www.saskpartyonthepond.com. More information about Party on the Pond can be found online and on the MCRP social media pages. All COVID-19 guidelines will be followed to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance.
