It's time to lace up your skates, Concordians. With warm weather forecasted for later this week, now is your time to take advantage of the Wittenberg Ice Skating rink.
Witt Rink got a surface refresh on Friday, March 1, and had a steady stream of visitors for SGA’s (rescheduled) Winter Classic this Friday, March 8. The event offered hot chocolate, apple cider, and a free skate under the lights of the rink.
Uncooperative weather and unforeseen circumstances have had a hand in stalling the rink’s grand opening multiple times over, but they didn’t deter former Resident Director Jon Schotte’s enthusiasm for the project.
“I got people’s feel for [the rink] before it went in and everyone was really excited, so we wanted to make it happen,” said Schotte, the brainchild behind the project. “I’m not gonna lie, it’s been a lot of work. I’ve spent numerous hours out there setting up lights, forming the walls, filling it, shoveling snow, and resurfacing it. Nothing makes me happier at this point than to see it being used and enjoyed.”
Finding extra hours in the day to work on top of an already busy schedule is sometimes what it takes to get the job done. But in the end it comes down to a passion for serving, and that is something Schotte has.
“I love serving the students,” Schotte said. “I love being able to build these facilities for people to use because when I see the excitement that everyone has for it, it’s all worth it.”
This fun installation is open to all CUW students, faculty, and staff, and skates are still available for anyone to use at no charge. Concordians are welcome to use the rink at any time (just be respectful of sleeping hours). The switch to turn on the lights strung above the ice is located on the north side of the “U”, and skaters are asked to turn them off by 10 p.m.
About Witt Rink:
- Hours of operation: Any time you want, just make sure the lights are out by 10 p.m.
- Skate availability: SGA purchased skates that are free and available for use. Skates may be obtained by contacting Seth Majerus or any Witt residence life staff. Skates range in size from 3 to 13, with at least two pairs of each size available.
- Light use: Lights can be turned on with the switch on the north side of the rink.
— Madelyne Arrigoni is a senior studying English, Mass Communications, and Photography. She plans to graduate in 2022.
If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.