Giants and Dundonald International Ice Bowl Skate into New Season

The only Olympic sized public skating rink on the island of Ireland, Dundonald International Ice Bowl first opened its doors in 1986 and offers a range of on and off-ice family-friendly activities, including ice skating, bowling, soft play, and studio fitness classes. Dundonald International Ice Bowl is a home away from home for the Belfast Giants, with the team making full use of the facilities when The SSE Arena, Belfast is unavailable for practice.

Adam Keefe, head coach of the Belfast Giants, said: “Ice hockey couldn’t thrive in Northern Ireland the way it has without Dundonald International Ice Bowl. We’re now in a position where we’re seeing players, like Mack Stewart and Kell Beattie, develop into professional ice hockey players right here in Belfast. That just wouldn’t be possible without the existence and support of Dundonald International Ice Bowl. More importantly, it’s great to have a public facility for members of the local community to try their hand at ice sports.”

In addition to being the Belfast Giants’ on-ice training facility, Dundonald International Ice Bowl plays a significant role in the development of ice hockey across Belfast and wider Northern Ireland, with the Junior Belfast Giants calling the venue home. Local amateur teams, Castlereagh Spartans, Castlereagh Vixens, and Prowlers are also based out of Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, community and wellbeing committee chairman at Lisburn & Castlereagh Council, commented: “Dundonald International Ice Bowl is delighted to once again partner with the Stena Line Belfast Giants for the 2023/24 season. Ice skating remains extremely popular at Dundonald International Ice Bowl, as we continue to welcome customers from across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the UK.

“The ice hockey practice sessions for the Belfast Giants that take place here have drawn an increased interest in the sport and ice skating in general, with many customers and visitors returning regularly to enjoy a recreational skate, participate in competitions or develop and improve their skills by registering on our ‘Learn to Skate’ programme at the Ice Bowl.”

For more information about Dundonald International Ice Bowl, please visit www.theicebowl.com.