The City of Welland is rallying residents to show their community pride as LIV Communities Arena competes in the 2026 Kraft Hockeyville campaign.
One of the men leading the charge is Welland-born Dan Girardi, who suited up in over 900 games in the NHL with the New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning.
Girardi says he has no shortage of memories growing up playing in Welland.
Kraft Hockeyville awards $250,000 in arena upgrades and the chance to host an NHL pre-season game to the winning community
Girardi says upgrades to Welland's arena would go a long way.
If Welland is selected, the funding would go toward priority upgrades at LIV Communities Arena, including an electric ice resurfacer, new information screens and updated changeroom locking systems.
Girardi says the types of players that have made it to the NHL from Welland have all been very tough, grind-it-out players, which is a good reflection of the city.
As part of the final rally leading up to the March 1 submission deadline, Girardi will make a special appearance for an autograph signing on February 27, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm in the front foyer of LIV Communities Arena.
Residents are encouraged to submit their stories, photos, and notes before the March 1 deadline by visiting Welland’s rally page here.
(Written by: Matt Latour)