The JRMCC is a large recreation and sporting complex on Far Reserve. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

making changes

‘We’re doing the best we can’: JRMCC staff remain committed during pandemic

Mar 26, 2021 | 2:23 PM

Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre (JRMCC) serves as a gathering spot for residents of the tri-communities and staff at the facility are hopeful they can welcome crowds back again soon.

Director of Sports and Recreation Kevin Roberts said when provincial government health orders were issued in March 2020, he didn’t envision there would be such extensive restrictions still in place one year later. He noted the JRMCC was initially forced to closed for months until there was a loosening of health orders last summer.

“We’ve been following whatever the guidelines have been since day one,” Roberts said. “We’re doing the best we can. We’re trying to host as many activities as we can.”

In the last 12 months, Roberts explained the centre has taken a financial hit as bookings at the facility have fallen by 75 per cent. In a typical year, there would be 160 events; weddings, meetings, conferences, tournaments, cabarets and other social gatherings.

The JRMCC, owned and operated by the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, is one of the largest facilities in the tri-communities. It includes an arena, hall, fitness centre and extensive sports and cultural grounds.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

“We’re revenue driven and we need to bring in money,” Roberts said. “We’re pretty lucky our council was able to help us that way and offset some of our financial concerns. It’s been quite a challenge this past year to keep our doors open.”

The arena hosts an ice surface, fitness centre and running track. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

The fitness centre reopened June 8 after being closed for months. (Submitted photo/Colin Ratushniak)

This golf simulator is the latest addition at the JRMCC. (Submitted photo/Kevin Roberts)

Roberts is optimistic restrictions will be loosened again soon, so sports like softball and baseball can commence this spring. He believes the lack of recreational and sporting activities for young people has been damaging, particularly in a mental health sense. While there still aren’t any competitions or tournaments permitted, Roberts said at least with practices there’s some kind of sports available.

He also noted the amount of work the Saskatchewan Hockey Association put into resume play, just for the season to be cancelled again.

“The hockey world in Saskatchewan followed all the recommendations, they followed all the rules,” Roberts said. “There was no major outbreaks within sports facilities, then you get shut down again for the season. Stuff like that were very disappointing. It’s hard on the kids and it’s hard on organizers and coaches.”

Roberts is hopeful there will be a return to normalcy soon as COVID-19 cases have leveled and more people are vaccinated. Being an optimist, he recently purchased a golf simulator to provide a new opportunity and open another stream of revenue.

“Talking to certain sports governing bodies, they are pretty hopefully we’re going to get some sports activities happening this summer, fall and winter,” Roberts said. “We look forward to getting back to normal.”

The facility is only currently permitted to host activities in bubbles of eight. Opportunities available now include CrossFit and yoga.

–

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno