Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1413077
22 / SEPTEMBER.OCTOBER.2021 USICERINKS.COM PHOTOS: GRIMM + PARKER ARCHITECTS, TUCKER ROAD Featured Rink Tucker Road Ice Rink | | Fort Washington, Maryland Ducks' program. "This rink was a home away from home for a lot of kids. If they weren't home or at school, they were at the rink. It's a community place to play and hang out. You hate to see that gone." Tucker Road Ice Rink was placed in a predominately African American com- munity. The sheet of ice was home to a brethren of players who might not normally opt for ice activities. The rink provided that exposure and that opportu- nity. As more hockey players came about, the Ice Ducks formed as the rink's home team in 2014. But for two years, players and figure skaters alike were forced to travel any- where from 10 to 30 miles—some even farther—to participate in sports they learned to love. Now they're back home with new and improved digs. While still filling the same 48,860 square-foot footprint of the original facility located on the Tucker Road Sports Complex, the new rink has increased its number of locker rooms from four to six, plus an additional two officials locker rooms. The ameni- ties added also include a cafe, larger skate rental space, fireplace, a dance stu- dio, a variety of party rooms/classrooms as needed and general upgraded vibe and feel. "THIS RINK HAD 30-40 YEARS OF HISTORY AND THEN IT BURNT DOWN. THERE'S A COMMUNITY FEELING THAT EXISTS TO THIS DAY THAT. THERE'S A HISTORY AND PASSION AND SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY. WE'RE A BRAND-NEW FACILITY, BUT NOT. IT'S INTERESTING AND AMAZING AT THE SAME TIME."