Corpus Christi could get a second sheet of ice within the next three years according to Steve Donner, CEO of the Corpus Christi IceRays. Donner said the IceRays are committed to building a “multi-faceted sport and entertainment facility and gathering place” and are looking at multiple sites throughout the Coastal Bend for a final location.
Donner said the facility would be used as a practice rink for the IceRays, recreational adult hockey, and youth hockey for ages eight and up. Corpus Christi previously had a youth hockey team under the Corpus Christi Youth Hockey Association, which ceased operations in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The IceRays do not currently have a permanent practice facility and use the Hilliard Center for practices. When the Hilliard Center is in use and the IceRays cannot practice, the team must travel to a rink in San Antonio. A hometown facility would reduce travel and fatigue while also promoting ice hockey and ice skating in the Coastal Bend.
Donner said the facility would be open to the public and would be used for other sports. The facility would have indoor turf for lacrosse and indoor soccer and basketball courts, and they would like to include retail stores and restaurants, according to Donner. Donner said he hopes to bring indoor soccer and lacrosse to Corpus Christi, and this facility would further that goal.
Recreational adult hockey will begin at the Hilliard Center in the second week of November, according to Donner.
