New pro shop open in Wasilla

JEREMIAH BARTZ/Sports Editor

WASILLA - The Wasilla Multi-Use Sports Complex and Curtis C. Menard II Memorial Ice Arena are becoming a popular stop for local soccer and hockey enthusiasts. Now the users of the Menard Memorial Arena and indoor turf field inside the complex, have a place within the building to purchase soccer and hockey merchandise.

In addition to its ice rink and turf field, the complex now includes Action Pro Shop. The store, which has been opened for nearly a month, was founded by a Big Lake family, in cooperation with the complex officials and the City of

Wasilla.

Kim Dooley, who runs the store with her husband Patrick, said as soon as the complex opened its doors last year she and her husband envisioned a pro shop as a great business opportunity. Once they inquired about the property and the idea was put in motion, the beginnings of the store came together quickly, Dooley said.

Bruce Urban, the Wasilla recreation and cultural services manager, said when the complex was initially built, it was designed to include a pro shop.

"It was something we had targeted - a room was specifically built," Urban said.

Once the Dooleys submitted their proposal, it was approved by both the complex administration and the City of Wasilla.

Urban said the main function he envisioned of the pro shop was to offer skate

sharpening.

Dooley said a Blackmaster Skate Sharpener was purchased, a machine she called the best on the market.

"If we're going to do it, we're going to do it first class," Dooley said.

In addition to offering skate sharpening, the 575-square foot store also features hockey and soccer equipment. Already on display are skates, sticks, tape and pads for hockey and various pieces of equipment which can be used on the indoor turf field of the facility. Dooley also said the store will special order items to meet the needs of her customers.

Dooley stressed, as parents of hockey and soccer players themselves, her intention was to create a family business with families in mind.

"We will do everything we can to assist (our customers). We are sports parents meeting the needs of sports parents," Dooley said. "We know how expensive it can be."

Action Pro Shop is currently open Monday through Friday from 3-8 p.m., on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For information regarding the store, customers are asked to call 357-GOAL.