Fun in the sun

“We thought it was a great opportunity to utilize the facility in the off-season, so we jumped on it,’’ said Cunningham.

“People who went out there said it’s so smooth, it’s almost like skating on glass,’’ said Joe Connelly, Arlington’s recreation director.

“It’s smoother than the street, it’s smoother than any wood surface. So the kids who’ve been out there have told us, ‘This is unbelievable.’ The concrete looks like they just poured it,’’ he said.

The sports complex also hosts the town’s summer camp program, and the rink has been used in the past for baseball, soccer, and lacrosse practices. Cunningham said his wife, an Arlington native, recalls roller-skating being offered there many years ago. So now the rink has come full circle.

“It’s not only a great addition for us, but for the community and the surrounding communities, to have a venue like this where people can do something as a family,’’ said Cunningham.

The local roller-hockey contingent has also gotten wind of the venue, and the Recreation Department is already fielding requests for rentals and leagues. The rink also hosts informal summer practices, at $5 per player.

“Next year, now that we have the system down, we’re planning on entertaining anyone who wants to come in and start a league,’’ said Connelly.

The early returns have Connelly and Cunningham optimistic about seeing the arena used year-round.

“We’re not going to make our money back this summer, but this is something going forward that would be a great use of the facility during these three dead months,’’ said Connelly.

“We hire a couple of skate guards, open the concession stand, but you don’t need a Zamboni driver, and you don’t need to turn on the compressors,’’ he said. “You just flick on the lights, put on the radio, and there you go.’’