Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 29, 2026 — Benchmark International Arena is currently undertaking the meticulous process of preparing its ice surface for the upcoming National Hockey League (NHL) season. The work involves a detailed application of paint and water to create the regulation playing field.

The transformation of the arena floor into a professional-grade ice rink is a multi-step operation managed by the ice crew. Central to this effort are the roles played by key personnel, including ice operations manager Patrick Jesso and Zamboni driver Ali Murdock. Their work ensures the ice meets the high standards required for NHL competition.

The preparation begins with the initial layout and painting of logos and boundary lines onto the concrete base. This foundational step is critical for accurate game play and visual appeal. Following the painting, layers of water are carefully applied and frozen to build up the ice sheet. The process is designed to create a smooth, consistent, and durable surface that can withstand the rigors of professional hockey games.

Zamboni machines, operated by skilled drivers like Ali Murdock, are essential tools in this process. These machines resurface the ice, removing imperfections and adding thin layers of water to maintain optimal conditions. The frequency and precision of Zamboni passes are crucial in achieving the desired ice quality.

Ice operations manager Patrick Jesso oversees the entire procedure, ensuring that all aspects of ice preparation are carried out according to specifications. The goal is to deliver an ice surface that provides a fair and safe environment for players throughout the demanding NHL season. The exact timeline for the completion of the ice preparation was not provided.


Story summarized from the original created by Blake Phillips on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.

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