The Shell Place Fieldhouse had a soft opening last weekend even though construction is continuing on the main facility. For the first time members of the local community had access to the badminton courts and the fieldhouse with indoor turf. On Saturday the community was invited to take part in drop in badminton play. On Sunday the fieldhouse was in use by the Keyano Huskies, the Fort MacMurray Monarchs, local soccer associations, and groups playing Gaelic football. Regional Recreational Corporation capital projects and procurement director Rachel Orser said “It’s phenomenal. To see the people in badminton today, I actually got goosebumps. It’s the most exciting part of the project to see the end users … and the community enjoying it.” The first test game will be held at the stadium on July 6, when the Fort MacMurray Monarchs will open their 2015 season.

In spite of the soft opening at the Shell Place Fieldhouse construction continues to get the main facility completely ready for the grand opening. Right now the construction crews are working on temporary seating and also correcting any identified deficiencies concerning the SMS Equipment Stadium. There are also crews adding final touches, fixing heating system deficiencies, and even sanding down floor bolts. Osner told the media that seeing the stadium almost ready for the ribbon cutting ceremony was overwhelming. “I don’t know if there’s really words for it. When you first look at (building) a building this size, it’s overwhelming at days, so it’s very emotional. I can’t believe that we’re here.”