Featured Rink: William Chase Arena – Natick, MA

The William L. Chase Arena, formally known as the West Suburban Arena, was developed in the late 1960s/early 1970s. The Town of Natick purchased the facility in 1986 and in July of 2003 entered into a partnership with FMC.

The rink used to be a two-surface facility, but in 1988 the Town closed the rear ice surface and converted it to its current use as a DPW garage. Today the arena features a spacious lobby, snack bar, five team locker rooms, heated conference room, and facilities for birthday parties.

The rink is home to many local programs and high school teams including Natick High School, the Natick Comets, Dover Sherborn High School Boys, the Skating Club of Natick, and our very own Natick Chill of the New England Future Stars.

Arena Manager, EJ Gottwald, who has been with FMC for over 15 years, has previously has previously worked at the Jim Roche Community Arena in West Roxbury, the Navin Arena in Marlboro, and the Wallace Civic Center in Fitchburg. EJ also worked for the AHL at the DCU Center for 7 years as the Ice Operations Manager. On top of his duties as Arena Manager, EJ serves as the Vice President of NEISMA (North East Ice Skating Managers Association) and is a part of the operations team for the NHL Winter Classics.

On June 11th 2006, the Town and FMC joined together to re-name the arena in honor of one of the founders, William “Bill” Chase. Bill successfully managed the arena in its early years, earning a reputation as one of the best facilities in the Commonwealth. Along with his wife, Augie, he was instrumental in developing hockey and skating programs and positively influenced the lives of countless kids and families. On top of all that, in 1952 he founded the Natick Comets Youth Hockey Association, a group that still uses the rink today.

Chase offers plenty to do for all ages. On Wednesday afternoons, come play some public hockey. On Mondays and Tuesdays, sign up for our Learn to Skate classes to master basic movement, balance, and coordination. In the fall, join us for one of our many public skating sessions.

With a knowledgeable staff, clean environment, and plenty of entertainment, William Chase Arena is a wonderful place to skate and have fun!