Mayor Newman’s bold vision for Iroquois Park began in 1971. He dreamed of putting Whitby on the international sporting map. His original designs were quite something. They included a stadium, race track, arena, swimming pool and even an amusement park.
The Iroquois Park design was unveiled on July 28, 1971. But Toronto politicians weren’t so sure. They argued that Whitby wasn’t the right place for such a big sports complex. There were already plans for sports complexes in Toronto.
Mayor Newman believed the Iroquois Park project would boost the area. He thought it would create jobs and cultural opportunities east of Toronto. To fund the 70-million-dollar project, he proposed a province-wide lottery. Sadly, he couldn’t get approval for the lottery. The Iroquois Park plans were downsized. But the dream didn’t die.
In 1974, a 1500-seat arena opened at Iroquois Park. An indoor pool followed in 1975. Today, Iroquois Park Sports Centre stands as Canada’s largest municipally owned and operated recreation facility.
The Iroquois Park Sports Centre spans 50 acres. Inside, you will find six arenas including a large stadium arena. There are also two pools, a restaurant and food court. Banquet and meeting rooms, a pro shop and athletic training facilities are present.
Outside Iroquois Park offers even more. Six illuminated tennis courts await tennis enthusiasts. Baseball fans can enjoy three illuminated tournament-quality diamonds. There are also two unlit ball diamonds. A fully lit tournament-quality soccer pitch is present.
Iroquois Park also has a playground for kids of all ages. There is plenty of parking off Gordon Street. The playground features mulch ground cover for safety. Children can enjoy four slides, two swings and two infant swings. Music stations, a standing spinner and a spider web rope climber provide diverse activities. A double teeter rocker and a single rocker add to the fun. The playground also includes a braille station.
The Iroquois Park playground has some accessible features. A ramp provides access to the smaller play structure. It leads to music stations and a driving station.
A paved walking path winds through the athletic fields. It leads to the Iroquois Park Skatepark near the East parking lot. There are park benches for seating. Trees offer some shade around the playground.
The Iroquois Park Sports Centre is open seven days a week. Its opening hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It provides washrooms, water fountains and vending machines. Also there is an indoor family-friendly rest area.
The Iroquois Park Sports Centre was voted one of the top arenas in the GTA by the Toronto Star. This 250,000 square foot facility attracts many sports enthusiasts all year round. Advertisers and sponsors gain great visibility here.
From Mayor Newman’s ambitious vision to today’s bustling sports centre, Iroquois Park has become a vital part of the community. It’s a place for athletes, families and anyone looking for recreation and fun.