It's around this time of year that the rollerblades get put away and the bare floors of local arena get covered in what will become this season's best playground: the ice rink.

In my hometown of Vancouver, Britannia, Kerrisdale, Kitsilano, Riley Park, Sunset and the West End Community Centre are in full swing with their lessons, public skates, and drop in hockey games. Many are home to leagues, and some can even be rented out for school outings and private events. But what is it that gives a particular rink its appeal?

Ice
Is ice just ice? According to the Science of Hockey, "slow ice" and "fast ice" can be explained. "Fast ice is harder and colder with a smoother surface, while slow ice is warm and soft and may have a rough surface."

Facilities
Off the ice, what makes a rink special? It could be the historic significance, or the brand new facilities for players and guests. Locker rooms, rental area, and stands are all a part of a successful hockey rink. In the locker rooms you gear up and get advice from you coach. In the rental area your friends can lace up for an afternoon of fun on the ice, and the stands are for family and supporters of your team, without which you might not make it to practice on time, or get up enough courage to go on that breakaway.

Added touches
For some, it's all about the thrill of the game combined with the food. Food you may only eat on game days and only when handed to you over the counter of the concession stand. I did a quick poll this afternoon on Twitter and some of the top arena foods are peanuts, popcorn, chili fries, frosted malts, pizza, and of course, the hot dog. I had one person respond with 'poutine', which makes me definitely want to go to a game in their hometown.

Whatever the housing for the rink or what's served up inside, it's what takes place on the ice that matters most; playing fair, being safe, and being proud to represent your community and team.

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