TOLEDO -- The end appears to be in sight for sports and entertainment events at the Toledo Sports Arena, reports News 11's Rob Wiercinski.
The 60-year-old facility is located on Main Street in East Toledo, which just happens to be within the Marina District development area.
Rob spoke on Friday with Mayor Finkbeiner's spokesman, Brian Schwartz, and learned the city has yet to nail down a cost estimate for tearing down the Sports Arena, as well as exactly when the demolition will happen.
However, the signs are pointing to an Extreme Toughman contest being the "last hurrrah" for the arena. Also, crews have shut off the ice compressor for the last time, and pro hockey in Toledo is taking time off until a new downtown facility is built.
"This is one of the last unique buildings, and I guess it's time for it to go," said Assistant Coach Rick Judson, who was part of the back-to-back Storm championship teams.
While many people call it an "old dump," the Sports Arena holds a special place in Judson's heart, he said. "It's exciting as a player to play here. In the early 90's, with 5,300 people, standing room only, those are the times I'll remember the most."
Dale Mugler operated the Zamboni for every Storm game, except one. He figures over the last 16 years, he drove it far enough to go from New York to L.A., and halfway back again.
"I kind of liked the kids all lined up giving them high fives and they really took to the Zamboni," Mugler said. The man known as "Mugsie" was hoping the old arena wouldn't face the wrecking ball until the new arena opens.
"Two more years out of it would have been nice, but that's not my say," Mugler said.
Lucas County officials say talks are underway with the city to provide a portion of the funding to tear down the Sports Arena.
For fun facts and a little history, visit our home page and look under "As Seen on News 11" for a link to the Toledo Sports Arena.
