Recently, I had the opportunity to take a behind the scenes tour of Centre 200 in Sydney. I've been to Centre 200 many times to watch sporting events in the arena, or to attend business events in the concourse area. Many years ago, I had fun playing on the basketball court in an opening game for the Globe Trotters.  

I actually grew up on Douglas Street (which terminates at Centre 200) and spent a lot of time at the old Sydney Forum back in the day, and at the Police Boys and Girls Club that was in behind the rink (who loves bumper-pool?). I still remember the lucky day that I found a $20 bill in the dirt roads and hills between the buildings (or maybe it was just $5 and it grew in time like a fishing story :-)

Back to present day, I was touring the Centre 200 facility for the Cape Breton Highlanders professional basketball team that recently launched here. And, I was quite impressed ... and thankful ... that we have this facility in our community. Paul MacDonald, General Manager, was kind enough to lead the tour.

I wish I had taken some photos (if I do, I will add them here later), but here is what stood out to me:

• The facility is large enough to host significant events, yet still seems intimate for a large arena.
  
  
• Every seat is a good seat.
  
  
• The facility is well kept and clean.
  
  
• With the large concourse, the facility can also host smaller events that don't need access to the arena.
  
  
• It is wired well for video.
  
  
• Good ice surface and an authentic hardwood basketball court.
  
  
• The building is increasingly energy efficient.
  
  
• The facility is getting even better with new improvements coming.

Without a facility of this size and capability, Cape Breton would miss out on a lot of really interesting events.

I could also tell that Paul cared about the success of the facility and making sure his team continues to improve it for the good of our community. I'm looking forward to the 20 home games the Cape Breton Highlanders will be playing this season.