How Dalhousie Built a World-Class Rink Using Surprisingly Simple Tools
What looks like a flawless sheet of ice is actually the result of patience, precision and surprisingly simple tools at Dalhousie University.
At the brand-new Oulton-Stanish Centre at Dalhousie University in Halifax, crews have just completed a world-class, NHL-sized rink. But here is what may surprise you. The technology behind it is not futuristic. It is hands-on, deliberate and in many ways old-school.
This rink holds roughly 73,000 litres of frozen water, about the size of a large backyard swimming pool. And yet, before the bold Dal Tigers logo appeared at centre ice, the process started with something much less glamorous. Layer by layer, water was carefully applied over concrete. Four base layers first. Then multiple coats of white paint. Then eight to ten more thin layers of water. Only about one eighth of an inch of ice existed before the acrylic layer went down. After that, more than an inch of additional ice was hand-flooded on top.
And here is where craftsmanship really takes over.
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All of the rink markings, every red line and blue line, were measured and placed by hand. Yarn was stretched tightly across the surface using plumb-line techniques similar to wallpaper installation. Tape, rollers, ropes and spray bottles were used to lock everything into place. Technicians even used a custom compass-style mop handle with a marker to draw precise circles. Each backpack sprayer carried about 15 litres of water to freeze the yarn into position.
Modern Zambonis were brought in for some early layers. But they could not be used for the delicate base because their studded tires would damage thin ice. So much of the most critical work was done manually.
Even simple drywall tape was installed between the ice and the boards to prevent water from seeping underneath. It is a reminder that even in a world of high-tech arenas, the foundation of a perfect rink still depends on human skill.
This project was completed with the leadership of the Recreation Facility Association of Nova Scotia, working closely with Dal’s facilities team. The Oulton-Stanish Centre officially opens in March 2026 and it is expected to become a major hub for students, athletes and the broader Halifax community.
This is more than just ice. It is about community pride, athlete development and creating a space where competition and connection come together.
Stay with us for more updates on the grand opening and what this new centre means for sports and student life in Canada and beyond.
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