After record snowfalls in the winter of 2021, the ice stadium in Sterzing collapsed under the weight of the snow on 10th February. No one was injured and it quickly became clear that a new solution was needed. REALICE delivered the turnkey solution in record time.
In the same year as the collapse of the ice stadium, Sterzing now has a new ice sports facility for athletes and the public. In less than four months, the South Tyrolean company Intercom Dr. Leitner – together with its business unit REALICE – planned and built a turnkey solution: a new airdome with innovative ice technology.
With the investigations still ongoing at the time of the project start, it was very quickly decided that Intercom Dr. Leitner, with its many years of experience in the field of ice rinks, was the right partner for this challenge. The main requirements were to ensure the shortest possible implementation time, profound planning competence and long-term project experience. In the end, REALICE built one of the most modern airdomes in the entire region, which today again offers space for more than 700 fans, hosts hockey championships and training sessions, and is an attraction for the skating-loving public.
Photo: REALICE - Intercom Dr. Leitner
Turnkey solution
Photo: REALICE - Intercom Dr. Leitner
One of the first steps in the project, and at the same time a huge challenge, was to drain the ground before the actual work could begin. Another special circumstance facing the entire project was the need to ensure alignment almost simultaneously between technical planning, material procurement and installation on-site. Every single project step had to run 100 % hand-in-hand. The experienced team of engineers, project managers and installation staff proved essential.
Photo: REALICE - Intercom Dr. Leitner
For ice rinks in general – whether permanent or mobile solutions – the key factor is always to deliver the best ice quality, based on a reliable technology that ultimately provides a perfect experience for athletes and leisure skaters alike. REALICE has established a strong reputation for itself worldwide in this area, and can cite a wide range of both prestigious projects and standard solutions. The highest possible level of quality, reliability and payback in the shortest possible timescales are essential – no matter whether a turnkey or a temporary solution. The patented REALICE ice technology (refrigeration technology and mat systems), the installation of the new board system, as well as the project and planning experience were the criteria for success in Sterzing. Finally, in the same year as the previous stadium’s collapse, the national hockey championship was held and both skating-addicted children and adults were again able to pursue their passion.
A true lighthouse project for the entire region - from zero to 100 in less than four months.
