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Accessible Parking
Parking spots for guests with disabilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are 11 designated accessibility parking spaces in the main parking lot. Theses spaces, including van-accessible spaces, are designated for vehicles displaying a current disability placard.
Address
GFL Memorial Gardens
269 Queen Street East
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
P6A 1Y9
Administration Offices
The GFL Memorial Gardens Administration Office is located on the south end of the suite level. Business hours are Monday to Friday - 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Advertising
There are several advertising opportunities within GFL Memorial Gardens. Please contact the Soo Greyhounds for more information.
Jeff McClelland
jeff@soogreyhounds.com
705-574-0088
Air Horns, Whistles, Noisemakers & Laser Pointers
For the comfort and safety of all patrons, air horns, laser pointers and other noisemakers are not permitted in the Essar Centre.
Alcohol
Alcohol and beer will be served at most events. All patrons who appear to be under the age of 30 years will be asked to present identification at the time of purchase. A limit of two drinks per customer per transaction may be purchased. No alcohol is permitted to be brought in or outside of the facility at any time.
ATM
Two ATMs are conveniently located within GFL Memorial Gardens. One on the north east concourse (top of Section 106) and the other on the south west concourse (top of Section 115). Debit machines are available in the concessions but not at the bars.
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Baby Changing Stations
Baby changing stations are located in all family services washrooms on all levels.
Bags (Luggage/Backpacks/Sports Bags etc.)
Small handbags, diaper bags and bags specifically required for medical purposes will be permitted into hockey games, shows and events. All bags may be subject to a search upon entering some events.
Banners and Signs
Signs and banners may be allowed within the venue as long as they fall within the following guidelines:
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The sign/banner does not impair the view of any guest in the Arena, or block any existing signage or vents.
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Information contained on the sign/banner is not of the nature that could be construed as vulgar, offensive, graphic or outside of what the community standard would consider in "good taste".
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The hanging of signs/banners does not damage Arena walls, paint, railings, glass, etc.
Please note some events, such as concerts, selected family events and other sanctioned events, prohibit banners, signs and sticks of any type. Banners and signs are subject to search and may be confiscated if the messages are inappropriate. Banner poles and sign sticks are not permitted.
Box Office
The box office is located on the north west concourse at the main entrance Gate A.
The hours of operation from Labour Day to Victoria Day are:
Monday - Friday (10 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
Saturdays (10 a.m. - 2 p.m.) (Open from 10am though to 2nd period on game days)
Sundays (Open at 10am for Greyhound game and special events ONLY)
The hours of operation from Victoria Day to Labour Day:
Monday - Friday (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
Saturdays (closed)
The Box Office is closed every Sunday except on an event day when it will open at 10 a.m. For more information please call 705-759-5251 ext. 2.
Bus Parking
Two spots are available along the west side of the building in the main lot. There are also 4 stalls available for bus parking for concerts in the south lot off Bay Street.
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Cameras
Recording devices such as audio (i.e. recorders) or video (i.e. use of the video option on digital cameras) are not permitted in GFL Memorial Gardens. However, guests are permitted to bring small still cameras without a camera bag. Still cameras with the option of the use of detachable lenses are not permitted. This policy may vary by event, so please inquire prior to coming to the event.
Cell Phones
Cell phones are permitted in GFL Memorial Gardens provided they do not interfere with other fans' enjoyment of the event.
Child Ticket Policy
Most events do not require a child who is less than 2 years old to have a ticket unless they are to occupy a seat. This policy will vary by event, so please inquire at time of ticket purchase. For Soo Greyhound games, children under 3 years of age do not require a ticket.
Concessions
There are four main concessions located in each corner of the concourse as well as an additional concession located on the north west corner of the event level. Food and beverage obtained outside GFL Memorial Gardens is not permitted in the building for any event in which alcohol is being served.
Cup Holders
All season ticket holders have the opportunity to purchase a personal cup holder for their designated seat. Cup holder order forms can be obtained and purchased at the Box Office.
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Directions
See directions to GFL Memorial Gardens.
Doors Open
For most events doors will open one hour prior to the event start time.
For Soo Greyhound games, doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for a 7:07 p.m. start time and 12:30 p.m. for a 2:07 p.m. start time. For Friday and Saturday games doors will open at 5 p.m. for patrons attending the restaurant.
Donations
When possible GFL Memorial Gardens donates merchandise and/or tickets to charities and not-for-profit groups for use in fundraising events. The Gardens views this as a special opportunity to support organizations that are working to make a positive difference in the lives of those in our community.
The following policies and procedures must be used:
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All donation requests must be submitted in writing at least three weeks prior to the fundraising event.
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No telephone call request will be accepted.
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All requests must be on the organizations official letterhead.
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Letters must contain the date of the event, the contact person's name, daytime phone number and address, the type of fundraiser and where the proceeds will go.
Due to the high volume of requests, we regret that not all donation requests can be accommodated.
GFL Memorial Gardens looks forward to servicing our community where our fans live, our staff works and our team plays.
Drop Off/Pick Up Area
There is a designated area to drop people off in front of the venue on Queen Street. As a courtesy to people who are disabled and seniors who need to use the drop-off area, able-bodied patrons are encouraged to be dropped off close to the Centre rather than at the front entrance.
Dressing Rooms
There are a total of 5 fully equipped dressing rooms in GFL Memorial Gardens with showers and dressing areas.
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Elevators
There are two elevators within GFL Memorial Gardens. One designated accessibility elevator is located at the Main Entrance (Gate A). The second is a designated service elevator but can be used in emergency situations for guests.
Emergencies
For emergencies during a GFL Memorial Gardens event, please notify the closest staff member; ushers, concessions, maintenance, security, cashiers and management personnel can be found throughout the venue.
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Fan Courtesy
During a Soo Greyhounds game, guests arriving or returning to their seats will be asked to wait until a stoppage in play before entering the stairway to avoid disrupting the view of other fans.
Improper conduct, which includes profane or abusive language, intoxication and throwing objects onto the ice or in the stands, will result in ejection from the building. Repeat offences may result in loss of ticket-privileges.
First-Aid
For all GFL Memorial Gardens events, a trained Advanced First Aid crew will be present and will monitor the concourse and event level. A designated first aid room is located on the north west corner of the event level. Additionally, OHL rules make it mandatory to have a paramedic on site for all home games.
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Group Sales
Some concerts and special events offer group sale opportunities for groups of 8 or more people. Contact the Box Office for more information at 705-759-5251 ext. 2.
The Soo Greyhounds offer discounted ticket opportunities for groups of 15 or more people looking to enjoy a game night at GFL Memorial Gardens. For more information contact Adam Stokes (Manager of Ticket Sales) at 705-574-0090 or adam@soogreyhounds.com.
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Hockey Hall of Fame
Established in 1964, the Sault Ste. Marie Hockey Hall of Fame recognizes the contributions of players, teams, coaches and referees in the sport of hockey. Located in GFL Memorial Gardens, the Hockey Hall of Fame display includes photos, plaques and other items of interest showcasing the heritage of hockey in our city. Past Inductees
Hockey House
Located on the East side of the concourse, the 70 seat restaurant offers fans the opportunity to enjoy a meal or snack before or during any Soo Greyhounds hockey game. Visit the Hockey House for more information.
Hound Pound
The Soo Greyhounds official merchandise store is located on the west side of the concourse. It is open before and during all home games or online at www.thehoundpound.ca.
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Ice Rentals
If you are interested in renting ice time at GFL Memorial Gardens or any community centre arena, please visit Ice Rentals to view availability and book online.
Insider Club
Be the first to know what's going on at GFL Memorial Gardens and get access to special offers and presales by joining our Insider Club. Sign up today for this free service.
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Jumbotron
For more information on advertising on the jumbotron during a Soo Greyhounds game, please contact:
Jeff McClelland
jeff@soogreyhounds.com
705-574-0088
To include a birthday or anniversary announcement, please contact Jeff McClelland or visit the Hounds Marketing table at the game.
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Load-In Door
For concerts and events our load in door is located on the ground level off the south parking lot on Bay Street. The dimensions are 13.11 ft wide x 14.6 ft high.
Lost & Found
The lost and found is located at the Box Office. Found items can be returned to the Box Office during events. If you think you have lost something at GFL Memorial Gardens call 705-759-5251 ext. 2.
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Meetings & Banquet Rooms
There are a variety of different meeting and banquet rooms located within GFL Memorial Gardens to make any meeting or special event unique. Visit our Meeting Rooms page for more info.
Merchandise
The Soo Greyhounds official merchandise store is located on the west side of the concourse. It is open before and during all home games or online at www.thehoundpound.ca.
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Parking
There are approximately 212 parking spaces in the main parking lot. Additional special event parking is made available in the City-owned parking lots within a few block from the Centre - see Downtown Parking Map. All parking is offered free of charge.
The parking lot is to be used in a safe manner. Ball playing, rollerblading and skateboarding in the parking lots and roadways is a safety hazard and is not permitted. Illegal parking is prohibited. Violators may be ticketed and/or towed at the owner's expense.
Pets
All pets with the exception of service animals, are not permitted in GFL Memorial Gardens. Please notify your ticket seller at the time of purchase if accessible seating is required for the convenience of your service animal.
Preferred Hotels
Traveling from out of town? With many hotels to choose from, we make it easy to find and book hotels in the area! See Preferred Hotels for more information.
Prohibited Items
For your safety and comfort, the following items are prohibited within GFL Memorial Gardens:
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Food or beverages purchased outside GFL Memorial Gardens
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Bottles and cans
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Sticks/flagpoles
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Aerosol cans
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Fireworks
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Skateboards
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Inline skates/roller skates
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Cigarettes, cigars, or any electronic vaporizer
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Illegal drugs or noxious substances
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Cameras, sound and/or video recording devices as per event restrictions
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Stolen tickets
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Items prohibited based on promoter request
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Frisbees and/or beach balls
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Laser pointers
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Any mechanically enhanced noise making devices, specifically air horns with sirens/whistles
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Spike or studded jewellery or belts
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Weapons and dangerous devices of any type such as firearms, explosives, stun guns, handcuffs, clubs, batons, martial arts instruments, knives, etc.
Building management reserves the right in their absolute discretion to deny access for any item(s) deemed a safety concert or may result in an undesirable impact on the guest experience.
Illegal items will be turned over to the Sault Ste. Marie Police Services. If a guest is found in the facility with a prohibited item, the item will be confiscated, and in some cases, the fan may be evicted from the building.
Projectiles
For the safety of all guests, any person found endangering others by throwing or tossing objects within the arena or onto the ice surface will face immediate ejection from the building.
Pucks
Pucks flying into spectator areas can cause serious injury. Please be alert in spectator areas, including after stoppages in play. If you are injured, please notify a staff member at once. Fans are welcome to keep any puck shot into the stands.
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Refunds
Once you have purchased your tickets for an event all sales are final. As per promoter policies, GFL Memorial Gardens is unable to refund or exchange any tickets, at any time. Only exception is for the Soo Greyhounds Season's Ticket Exchange policy.
Restaurants
Within GFL Memorial Gardens, there is one restaurant located on the east end of the concourse. The Molson's Hockey House is open before and during all Soo Greyhounds hockey games.
Restrooms
There are 4 men's and 4 women's restrooms located around the main concourse. There is also 1 men's and 1 women's restroom located on both the event level and the suite level. Each is wheelchair accessible and family restrooms are conveniently located next to these restrooms.
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Safety First
GFL Memorial Gardens is obligated to enforce a regulation that prohibits guests from bringing cans, bottles, containers and other potentially hazardous items into the arena. Provincial laws also prohibits bringing alcoholic beverages onto the premises. Guests with questions concerning these regulations are advised to ask a nearby usher during event times.
Scalpers
Ticket scalpers are not recognized ticket agents of GFL Memorial Gardens. If you accidentally purchase lost or stolen tickets, you risk being removed from your seats upon the arrival of the legitimate ticket holder. The GFL Memorial Gardens ticket office does not sell tickets to be re-sold and will not sell tickets by mail, telephone or in person to anyone whom they believe may re-sell the tickets. GFL Memorial Gardens strongly urges all guests to purchase tickets through our Box Office or website and not to patronize ticket brokers or scalpers.
Searches
If you are carrying a handbag or backpack, please be advised that for the security and safety of our fans and players, you may be subject to a search and will be asked to check the item at the Box Office. GFL Memorial Gardens only allows small personal handbags or baby bags in to the building. We recommend you leave your backpacks, large packages or other bags either at home or in your car.
Additionally, some events may involve pat-down searches that will only be performed by qualified designated security personnel. Fans that refuse to submit to either a visual or pat-down search shall be refused entry.
Season Tickets
If you're interested in purchasing season tickets for the Soo Greyhounds, please contact Adam Stokes at adam@soogreyhounds.com or 705-574-0090.
Seat Plaques
Seat plaques are available to be purchased for a seat in GFL Memorial Gardens. These can make great gifts for a super fan, or it's a great way to memorialize a lost loved one. A seat plaque is a unique way to forever preserve a memory or to honour a person. For more information contact the Box Office at 705-759-5251 ext. 2.
Service Animals
All service animals are welcome. Please notify your ticket seller at the time of purchase if an aisle seat is required for your service animal.
Smoking Policy
Smoking is not permitted in any area inside GFL Memorial Gardens. Designated smoking areas are located outside of each gate. For all Soo Greyhounds games fans are permitted to scan out at any time to use the smoking area. For all concert and events it will be decided by the promoter.
Electronic cigarettes, personal vaporizers and electronic nicotine delivery systems are not permitted inside GFL Memorial Gardens in any area of the building at any time.
Suite Rentals
The suites at GFL Memorial Gardens are privately leased and are not available to rent for games or events, however the large VIP Suite located in the north west corner is available for rent.
To rent the VIP Suite for a Soo Greyhounds game, please contact Jeff McClelland at jeff@soogreyhounds.com or call 705-574-0088.
To inquire availability for a concert, please contact Marc Foggia at m.foggia@cityssm.on.ca or call 705-759-5383.
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Ticket Stubs
Ticket stubs should be retained throughout the event to allow staff to verify the seat location to which the ticket holder is entitled. Guests are not permitted to sit in seats for which they do not hold a valid ticket.
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Venue Rentals
If you're interested in renting GFL Memorial Gardens for a special event please refer to the Promoter's Info page for more information.
Videoboard Greetings
If you would like a special birthday or anniversary greeting to be displayed at a Soo Greyhounds game, please contact Jeff McClelland at jeff@soogreyhounds.com. Please submit these requests 24 hours in advance to the game.
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Walking
GFL Memorial Gardens promotes the importance of a healthy lifestyle by offering walking free of charge. The concourse provides a great opportunity for guests to stay in shape and walk all year long. View Walking for more information.
Wheelchairs
If you require wheelchair seating, please inform the ticket seller or phone operator at the time of purchase. GFL Memorial Gardens does have a limited stock of wheelchairs that are used for transportation purposes only, i.e. to and from your seat. Wheelchair seating locations are reserved for those who require accessible seating. For inquiries concerning wheelchair seating, please contact the Box Office at 705-759-5251 ext. 2.
Will Call
Fans who have purchased tickets to be picked up at Will Call can do so at the main Box Office. Please ensure that you bring proper photo identification and your confirmation number when picking up your tickets.