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The City of Hoboken and the New Jersey Devils celebrated the grand reopening of the Johnny Ray McDonald Jr. “Diddle” Hockey Rink Oct. 1, as well as marked the launch of a new Youth Ball Hockey Program.
The event at the Multi-Service Center featured appearances by Devils alumni, local officials and the McDonald family, honoring the legacy of the late coach and longtime city employee.
In a partnership announced last year, the Devils committed $230,000 to renovate the rink and provide new equipment. Additional support also came from the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund. The project included resurfacing, new dasher boards and upgraded flooring — all completed at no cost to Hoboken taxpayers.
The Youth Ball Hockey Program is open to children ages 5–17. It offers co-ed instruction in ball hockey fundamentals, skill-building and gameplay. Sessions run weekly through early November, with all equipment, uniforms and coaching provided by the Devils and the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund.
Revitalizing recreation
“This new rink and youth program are a win for Hoboken, and a shining example of what can happen when public agencies and private organizations come together with a shared vision,” said Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla. “Thanks to the generous support of the New Jersey Devils and the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund, we’ve been able to revitalize an important recreational space at no cost to our taxpayers and also create new opportunities for our children to stay active, develop skills, and build confidence through sports.”
“My brother’s legacy lives on in every skater that steps onto the rink,” said Vanessa Falco, McDonald’s sister. “The New Jersey Devils investment in the rink is more than a renovation; it’s a recognition for people like my brother who love and created community from the game.”
Bhalla added, “This project honors the legacy of Coach Johnny Ray McDonald Jr., and I couldn’t be prouder to see our community come together to celebrate.”