When winter sets in at the University of British Columbia (UBC), students don’t just stay indoors—they head to the Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre, also known as the UBC Winter Sports Centre, for fun, fitness, and community vibes.
Originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics, this facility has transformed into one of the most popular recreation spots on campus. From free ice skating to late-night hockey games, UBC students are embracing the cold in the coolest way possible at the UBC Winter Sports Centre.
A Place for More Than Just Ice
The UBC Winter Sports Centre is more than just a rink. It’s where students relax, socialize, and stay active. With three ice sheets, including the main Thunderbird Arena, the space offers:
- Free drop-in public skating sessions for UBC students
- Learn-to-skate classes and hockey clinics
- Recreational intramural hockey and figure skating teams
- Community and varsity games open to the public
Check out the full list of services on the official UBC Recreation page.
Why Students Love It
1. Fitness with Fun
Students use the rink not just for sports, but also for stress relief during exam season. Skating improves balance, cardio, and mood. Plus, it’s a fun way to meet new people at the UBC Winter Sports Centre.
2. Easy Access
The centre is right on campus and open year-round. With a valid UBC student card, most drop-in sessions are free.
View the current schedule for free skating sessions on the UBC Drop-In Calendar.
3. Inclusive for All
UBC has made it a priority to offer trans-inclusive and women-only skate hours. Programs like Move UBC also host events encouraging physical activity for everyone.
Learn more about these initiatives on UBC Wellbeing.
Social Vibes and Hashtag Culture
A quick scroll through Instagram or TikTok will show UBC students skating to trending music under hashtags like #WinterOnIce, #UBCRecLife, and #DougSkates. Students often post short clips from midnight skate sessions or team celebrations after games.
There’s even a growing trend of themed skate nights—from pajama parties to holiday costume skates.
Want to catch one? Follow the UBC Events page for themed nights and recreational leagues.
Facilities at a Glance
| Area | What It Offers |
|---|---|
| Thunderbird Arena | 7,500-seat Olympic venue, varsity games, concerts |
| Protrans & Father Bauer Arenas | Community leagues, rentals, learn-to-skate programs |
| Multipurpose Space | Fitness classes, team meetings, and wellness events |
For a closer look, visit the Sport Facilities site.
A Boost to Mental Health and Community
Many students say that visiting the UBC Winter Sports Centre helps reduce stress and gives them a chance to bond with peers outside the classroom. Whether they’re part of a recreational league or just learning to balance on skates for the first time, it’s all about connection.
It also helps international students experience Canadian winter culture in an exciting, welcoming way.
Read more about UBC’s mental health strategies on UBC Thrive.
How to Get Involved
New to the ice? Don’t worry. UBC Recreation offers beginner skating lessons, hockey equipment rentals, and campus-wide health campaigns to get you started.
Tips:
- Wear thick socks and bring gloves
- Arrive early—drop-in slots fill up quickly
- Ask about gear rentals at the arena front desk
Final Thoughts
The Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre isn’t just a place for athletes. It’s a lively, inclusive space where UBC students come together—whether to skate, cheer, or simply unwind. It’s winter fun with purpose, right in the heart of campus.
So next time you’re on campus, grab your skates and head to The Doug. Who says winter can’t be the most active season of the year?
Want to explore more student life stories? Visit EveryAna’s for the latest trends.
