Scheels Athletic Complex in Sartell Nears Completion

(KNSI) – The Scheels Athletic Complex in Sartell is scheduled to be completed in the next few weeks.

Officials with the facility are planning for a grand opening in late April or early May.

The athletic complex consists of the original Bernick’s Pepsi Arena and the new Regional Diagnostic Radiology Arena, RDR Arena for short.

The project has doubled the size of the facility.

Arena Manager Jon Erickson says the new space will mean more opportunities for kids.

“The demand for ice is continuing to grow through our youth Association, which has driven that, but then the marketing of it as multi Sports Complex, is really what’s driven Sartell youth hockey, so both facilities will be used year-round, which is nice. Before, Bernick’s Arena would be a little quiet during the summer. We had some summer activities, but now, not anymore. So my job is going to double, and I’ll be busy all the time now.”

After seven years of planning and fundraising, he can’t wait to open.

“It’s exciting, and it’s great. I never thought I’d see it. I’ve been here since day one, since 2003. I didn’t think I’d see a second sheet in my 18 years that I’ve been here. I’m pretty excited about that. I think the community is very excited about that. It’s going to be a great benefit for both our youth program and our and especially our high school programs.”

The building will be the home of youth hockey in Sartell. The inside complex will also host lacrosse, football, soccer, baseball, and several events.

Erickson says the possibilities for the arena are nearly endless.

Construction on the 30,000-square-foot RDR Arena began in August. The project doubled the amount of space at the multi-sports complex.

Almost 85% of the $6.1 million project has come from private donations.

Fundraisers still have $175,000 they need to raise by the end of the month. To help get the project across the goal line, click here.