Ice skating has always been a popular winter sport, but in many parts of the world, it has also become a year-round activity. Ashburn Ice House in Virginia has become a popular destination for ice skating enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Ashburn Ice House, located in Sterling, VA, is a cutting-edge ice rink facility that provides a variety of programs and amenities to meet the needs of skaters.
Ashburn Ice House’s History
The Ashburn Ice House was built in 1998 and opened to the public that same year. It was Northern Virginia’s first ice rink to offer two NHL regulation-size rinks under one roof. The facility has since undergone several upgrades and expansions to meet the region’s growing demand for ice skating. Ashburn Ice House is now a premier ice skating facility, hosting a variety of events and competitions throughout the year.
Amenities and Facilities
The Ashburn Ice House is a massive 140,000-square-foot facility. It has two NHL-sized ice rinks, one of which can be converted into a turf field for other sports like soccer, lacrosse, and baseball. There is also a pro shop that sells ice skating equipment and gear, a snack bar, a fitness center, and several meeting and party rooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes.
Programs for Skating on Ice
Ashburn Ice House provides a variety of ice skating programs for skaters of all ages and abilities. The Learn to Skate program at the facility is intended for beginners who want to learn how to ice skate. The program is divided into levels, each of which focuses on a different set of skills and techniques. For those interested in playing ice hockey, the Learn to Skate program also includes a hockey skills program.
Ashburn Ice House has figure skating and ice dancing programs for more advanced skaters. The Learn to Play Hockey program at the facility is also popular among young hockey enthusiasts looking to improve their skills and learn the game in a fun and supportive environment. Ashburn Ice House also hosts a number of youth and adult ice hockey leagues for players of all skill levels.
Competitions and Events
The Ashburn Ice House is more than just a recreational facility; it also serves as a venue for ice skating competitions and events. The Washington Open, the Chesapeake Synchro Classic, and the Potomac Curling Club Bonspiel are among the annual events held at the facility. Hundreds of skaters and spectators from all over the country, and even from abroad, attend these events.
Ashburn Ice House not only hosts events but also has several skating clubs that train and compete in various ice skating disciplines. The Ashburn Ice Skating Academy, the Ashburn Synchronized Skating Teams, and the Old Dominion Figure Skating Club all train at the facility.
COVID-19 Safety Precautions
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashburn Ice House has taken several precautions to protect its employees, customers, and visitors. Air purification systems that use UV-C light technology to kill airborne viruses and bacteria have been installed at the facility. The facility also requires all staff and visitors to wear masks and practice social distancing while inside. Skaters must also wash their hands before and after each session.
