Hockey has been a cherished part of Lac Du Bonnet’s community since the 1930s. Back then, the town’s residents would eagerly await the river to freeze each fall, providing a natural rink for skating and hockey games. When the river was no longer suitable, the Lac Du Bonnet Social Club would step in to build a rink, ensuring that the passion for hockey never waned.

In those early days, hockey wasn’t just about the game; it was about community spirit and camaraderie. Teams from Lac Du Bonnet often faced off against Pointe du Bois, with players traveling by a bus that ran on railway tracks—a journey that began at the crack of dawn and took about two hours. Matches were more than competitive sports; they were social events, with players often staying for lunch and enjoying the hospitality of their rivals. A memorable milestone for the team was when the community rallied together to purchase their first set of hockey outfits. With contributions from local merchants and a generous $10 donation from Joe Sparman, they raised a total of $45. This was enough to buy nine brand-new hockey uniforms, making the team proud and fostering a greater sense of unity and pride.

The love for hockey in Lac Du Bonnet continued to grow, and by 1967, a new chapter began with the efforts of Ernest and Mary Newsham. The Newshams moved to Lac Du Bonnet in 1966, and Ernie, with his passion for sports, spearheaded the drive to build a closed-in skating arena. With Ernie as chairman, the community came together to raise funds, and through grants, pledges, and a great deal of local effort, the Lac Du Bonnet and District Sports Arena became a reality. For his tireless efforts, Ernie was awarded a Centennial Medal and Book of Remembrance in 1972. His legacy lives on, not only in the arena that continues to serve the community but also through the ongoing enthusiasm for hockey in Lac Du Bonnet, inspiring young players and bringing the community together.