Grande Prairie Storm Executive Director Catherine Ridgeway. Photo supplied

By Jeff Henson

GP STORM

Bonnett’s Energy Centre manager assumes new role with Grande Prairie Storm

Oct 24, 2022 | 3:11 PM

The Grande Prairie Storm did not have to look far to find their new Executive Director.

Catherine Ridgeway, who is the Events and Entertainment Manager with the city of Grande Prairie, and manager of the team’s home arena Bonnett’s Energy Centre, has been hired for the job.

“I am really interested in getting involved in sport management. And we all know that women are under-represented in that area. So the opportunity came up for me and it just seemed so exciting and a great opportunity that I could not pass by.”

Ridgeway, whose duties will include overseeing sponsorships, social media, and game-day experiences with the hockey club, takes over for Ryan Carter, who is stepping aside from the team at the end of October.

“Really I can just step in and continue the great work that Ryan has been doing over the past couple of years. I am really up to speed with what has been going on with the team. It is going to be a great fit for me to just hit the ground running.”

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Ridgeway says fostering relationships will be one of the first things she will be working on in her new role.

“Getting to know all of the season ticket holders and fans that come to the building, sponsors, and community partners. We really want to get back out into the community again and start fostering those relationships that maybe dropped over COVID. That is going to be a real priority for me going forward.”

Ridgeway is currently a member of the Alberta Soccer Association board of directors, serving as the board representative for the Alberta Soccer Association Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Indigeneity Committee.

She feels her experience in dealing with boards will be beneficial in her new job.

“I have a lot of experience on both sides of the table – working for a board and being on a board – so that board governance is a really exciting piece for me. And working with (General Manager) Mark (Bomersback) and (coach) Eric Thurston is going to be a real pleasure. I have a lot to learn on the game-day on-ice operations side, but I am going to let them do their thing and see where I can support them.”

Ridgeway will transition from her duties with the city to her new role with the Storm over the next two months.