To Principal Design Engineer Ryan Rogal, “obtaining world-class accreditation for a combination track and speed skating oval is a pretty proud moment for the community.”
As a partner at Catterall & Wright, which was heavily involved in the design , he knows the challenges behind this achievement and others at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex. “Being able to accommodate numerous sports on the same site is a challenge but enabling different sport groups to share space and facilities is also advantageous for the community as it ensures maximum use of facilities and equipment,” he says.
The partners at Catterall & Wright congratulate the people who laid the groundwork for upgrades and innovative new developments at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex. “It’s great for our city,” adds Ryan. “We hope everyone in the community steps up to help raise the rest of the funds and finish it off.”
Giving back to the community is important to Catterall & Wright. Though they often donate to the community-funded projects that they’re involved in, Ryan also has a personal reason for supporting the Gordie Howe Sports Complex. “I grew up not too far away,” he explains, “I have great memories of playing ball on the diamonds out there and skating on the oval.”
“It’s nice to see some money going into rejuvenating the different sports facilities. Hopefully it will attract more kids and events to the area,” he says, adding “We’re happy that were part of it and happy we could donate to it.”