Pro Hockey Returns to the Pacific Coliseum with a Fresh Face
The Pacific Coliseum is once again at the center of Vancouver’s hockey scene, after undergoing a series of upgrades that give the 57-year-old venue a much-needed refresh. On Monday, the Vancouver Goldeneyes of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) opened their training camp at the Renfrew Street landmark, signaling a new era for pro hockey on Vancouver’s north shore.
Owned by the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), the arena has long been a cornerstone of the city’s sports culture. This season, the Coliseum’s renovations aim to improve the fan experience while preserving the building’s historic charm. Local fans who have memories of the arena’s loud, close-quarters ambience can expect a more comfortable, modern atmosphere without losing the old-school ice hockey integrity that drew generations of players and supporters to its boards.
What’s New Inside the Walls
The upgrades touch several critical areas of the facility. Modernized lighting now casts a brighter, more even glow across the rink, enhancing both on-ice play and the spectator experience. A refreshed cooling system ensures consistent ice quality, a vital factor for the fast-paced action of PWHL competition and the training sessions that followed the camp’s kickoff. In addition, concourse improvements—from clearer wayfinding to upgraded concession stands—make a game-day visit more comfortable for families and season-ticket holders alike.
On the player side, the Goldeneyes and their coaching staff are benefiting from updated locker rooms and training areas designed to maximize practice efficiency and recovery. The camp sessions offer a first glimpse of how the team will fare in a league that values speed and skill, with athletes communicating about the improved spaces that support their routines.
A Historic Venue, A Modern Approach
The Pacific Coliseum’s history runs deep in Vancouver’s sports lore. First opening its doors in 1968, the rink has hosted a multitude of events—from world-class hockey to concerts and expositions. The new improvements strike a balance between respecting that legacy and embracing a modern standard of facility management. Local officials emphasize that the renovations were guided by a commitment to safety, accessibility, and sustainability, ensuring the arena will serve fans for decades to come.
Impact on the PWHL and the Community
For the Vancouver Goldeneyes, training camp at the Pacific Coliseum is more than just a routine start to the season. It is a visible sign of the league’s growth and stability, and a tangible demonstration to fans that pro women’s hockey is becoming a larger, more sustainable part of Canada’s sports landscape. The Coliseum’s refreshed infrastructure could also spur additional events and partnerships in the area, bringing more families to Renfrew Street and increasing community engagement with the PWHL.
What Fans Can Expect in the Season Ahead
As the Goldeneyes prepare for the regular-season grind, supporters can look forward to a more intimate and accessible game-day experience thanks to the improvements. The venue’s enhanced sightlines and comfortable amenities should contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging new fans to discover the excitement of PWHL hockey. With the team training at the same historic site that hosts so many memories, anticipation is high that this season could mark a turning point for both the club and the league.
In sum, the Pacific Coliseum’s fresh look is more than cosmetic. It’s a signal that Vancouver remains committed to preserving its hockey heritage while embracing the energy and ambition of the PWHL. As the Vancouver Goldeneyes take flight in this renewed setting, fans are invited to witness a stronger, brighter chapter in Vancouver’s pro hockey story.
