The Avalon Arena Association will proudly celebrate 50 years of operation in 2026. Its facility, on Anthony Avenue, originally opened as Twin Rinks on September 22, 1976, and is now known as the Capital Mitsubishi Centre. For five decades, it has served as a cornerstone for ice sports in the in the St. John’s Metro Region.

The vision for Twin Rinks was brought to life by David Riche, founder of the Avalon Arena Association. The idea was sparked, in him, following a difficult loss in a mainland hockey tournament, which highlighted a larger need, the importance of proper, modern facilities, in Newfoundland, to ensure athletes could develop and compete at the same level as the rest of the country.

At a time when dual ice pad facilities were uncommon in the 1970s, Twin Rinks represented a bold and forward-thinking approach. Designed to meet the growing demands of the ice sports community, the two-pad facility has proudly supported generations of athletes, teams, and organizations for nearly five decades.

Continuing its commitment to growth and community access, the Avalon Arena Association expanded its footprint in 2023 with the opening of an additional mini-pad ice arena, Capital Subaru Arena, in the East End of St. John’s. This expansion increased the availability of ice time for the community, which is currently struggling to meet the demand for ice availability.

As the Avalon Arena Association celebrates this historic milestone in 2026, we also look firmly toward the future. With a focus on sustainability, and continued investment in sport and community infrastructure, the organization remains committed to keeping the vision alive for the next 50 years. By supporting minor sport and the community, welcoming new generations of athletes, and strengthening partnerships, the Avalon Arena Association will continue to be a place where community, sport, and opportunity thrive.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone anniversary with our long-time user groups, partners, and stakeholders whose support and dedication have helped shape our past—and will guide us into the future.

There was a recent article published in the Downhome Magazine – December 2025 Edition, called Building a Legacy, which further explains the Avalon Arena Association story and the people behind it! Please follow the links to view.

Downhome Article – December 2025 Edition – Building a Legacy

Twin Rinks: Capital Mitsubishi Centre celebrates 50 years – Downhome Magazine