West Ferris Arena, also known as Sam Jacks Complex, holds a unique place in Canadian sports history as the birthplace of ringette, invented by Sam Jacks in 1963. Located in the heart of West Ferris, this community-focused facility serves as a hub for local hockey leagues, adult recreational programs, figure skating, and the West Ferris Ringette Association, accommodating ice sports enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
The arena features a regulation-sized ice surface (180′ x 85′) providing quality conditions for competitive hockey, ringette, figure skating, ball hockey, recreational skating, as well as martial art tournaments and trade show opportunities. Five team dressing rooms accommodate tournaments and multi-team events, while comfortable seating for approximately 300 spectators creates an intimate atmosphere for competitive play. The facility offers versatile meeting spaces including a 150-person auditorium and 16-person boardroom, ideal for tournament briefings, registration, coaches’ meetings, or awards ceremonies. Event amenities include a full kitchen equipped with stove, microwave, refrigerators, and dishwasher. Eighty on-site parking spaces provide convenient access for teams, families, and event staff, with ball hockey rentals available during the off-ice season.
Situated in North Bay’s established West Ferris community, the arena provides easy access from downtown and surrounding areas via Algonquin Avenue and Main Street East. Just five minutes away, Downtown North Bay offers diverse dining options, shopping, and local businesses along Main Street. Within ten minutes, visitors can enjoy the Waterfront District (seasonal) featuring the Heritage Train & Carousel, Chief Commanda II dinner cruises, sandy beaches, marina, and the scenic Kate Pace Way trail system. Cultural attractions including the North Bay Museum, and Dionne Quints Museum, while Duchesnay Falls trails, Laurier Woods Conservation Area, Education Trails, and Laurentian Ski Hill provide year-round outdoor recreation for teams and families.
Contact Tourism North Bay to discuss your event needs.