Above image: a rendering of the planned Kraken Iceplex and community center to be built in Kirkland.
Just over a year from now, Kraken Community Iceplex at Northgate is likely to have one less family signed up for skating and hockey. You’ll recognize the name – the family of Seattle Kraken captain Jordan Eberle.
The Eberle clan, minus Dad of course, is likely to switch allegiance to the newly-announced Kraken Iceplex and Kirkland Community Center. The Eberles live just up the road from the suburban site, to be built at the intersection of I-405 and 70th Ave., the former Houghton Park & Ride.
The captain was among speakers at a Kirkland City Hall media availability last week, which also included Washington Governor Bob Ferguson and Kraken majority owner Samantha Holloway.
Eberle Looking Forward To Iceplex In His Backyard
“Hockey’s, you know, number one in my life, and my kids took an early growth into it,” Eberle explained. “I have a 6 year old, a 3-year-old, and a 1-year-old. The 6 and the 3-year-old are in the learn to skate at the Kraken Community Iceplex,
“Hockey was given to me at a young age. To have that opportunity to see them building rinks and growing the game, I think from day one when we came here that was the purpose. To have it here for Kirkland, I’m a resident here. I live just up the hill. So to see this happening in front of my eyes, it means a lot.”
Moving On Up, To The East Side
The Kraken Iceplex and community center are slated to open in fall 2027, according to yahoo.com. “Plans for the development include two NHL-regulation ice rinks, a city-operated community center, a full-service public restaurant, a team store, and space for community programs, events, and activities.
“The development will create flexible program rooms and fitness space. Residents will be eligible for two hours of free open skate each month, and discounted programming will be offered for low-income and vulnerable populations through the One Roof Foundation.”
2nd Iceplex Expands Kraken Owner’s Vision
Holloway, head of One Roof Sports & Entertainment, explained the need for the new facility.
“The investment we made in Northgate was a bet on our fans and the game of hockey. It has exceeded our expectations to the point where we are oversubscribed for many of our programs, and that has led us here today.
“With the rapid growth in popularity and participation and a desire to continue to meet our fan base where they are, we began discussing building additional sheets of ice. That will come to reality here in 15 months in Kirkland, a place many of our players call home and love, a place with amazing community and similar values. The Kirkland Iceplex will open the door to more youth programs, rec leagues, and community programs.”
Holloway also used the opportunity to reflect back on the original Kraken Community Iceplex.
“Six years ago, when the Kraken built our headquarters in Seattle, we made a conscious decision to invest in the community by building three rinks when many thought we should just build one for the team to play on.
“We are an ambitious organization, and so we did build 3 sheets of ice, a restaurant, a team store, a Starbucks, a health clinic, with a mission to grow the game for everyone. This has made the Kraken Community Iceplex a hub of activity. A gathering for community, a place where you can learn to skate, to play hockey, to figure skate, to play in adult and youth leagues, and even dream of playing for the Kraken or the Torrent one day.”
Earlier Kraken:
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