Hey hockey fans! Get ready for a brand new spot to lace up and hit the rink! The Apex street hockey rink is opening THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 29TH and we couldn't be more pumped. Here's everything you need to know before you head over for the grand opening.

Location & Hours

The street hockey rink is located at 1616 Laura Duncan Road in Apex, NC. It's open daily from dawn to dusk, making it perfect for early birds and after-work players alike.

Rink Surface: Sport Court

The big news? This rink features a Sport Court surface rather than traditional asphalt. This is a game-changer for your gear and your joints! The Sport Court surface provides better shock absorption and a more consistent playing experience.

Wheel Recommendations

Because of the Sport Court surface, you'll want to adjust your wheel selection:

• Medium to soft wheels (78A-85A) will give you the best grip and performance
• Save your hard outdoor wheels (88A+) for rough asphalt surfaces
• Softer wheels will help with quick starts and stops on this surface

Rules & Usage

• The rink operates on a first-come, first-served basis
• No reservations required (but be prepared to share during peak hours)
• Bring your own equipment (sticks, pucks, goals, etc.)
• Helmets REQUIRED for all players (non-negotiable safety rule)

What to Bring

• Stick and ball/puck
• Water bottle (there are fountains nearby, but always good to have your own)
• Helmet (mandatory) and other protective gear
• Your A-game!

Weather Considerations

The Sport Court surface handles moisture better than concrete or asphalt, but it's still not great to play on when wet. After rain, the surface dries faster than traditional rinks, but give it a couple hours of sunshine before heading out.

Future Community Potential

With the rink just opening, there's huge potential for a street hockey community to develop in Apex! No organized leagues yet, but this is the perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to:

• Start regular pickup games
• Form unofficial meetup groups
• Be part of building the local hockey scene from day one

Keep an eye on local social media groups to connect with other players looking to get games going

Nearby Amenities

• Restrooms available at the nearby park facilities
• Plenty of parking available
• Shaded areas for spectators and gear

Gear Maintenance Tips

Playing on Sport Court will affect your gear differently than outdoor surfaces:

• Less wheel wear compared to asphalt
• Bearings stay cleaner longer
• Still clean your wheels and bearings regularly for best performance

Final Thoughts

This rink is about to become a fantastic addition to the local hockey scene. The Sport Court surface means less wear and tear on your body and equipment compared to traditional outdoor rinks. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, be one of the first to check out the Apex street hockey rink this Saturday!

Planning to hit the rink on opening day? Drop a comment below about what you're most looking forward to, or come back and share your first impressions!