Centre Georges-Vézina (Colisée de Chicoutimi): arena in Chicoutimi, Quebec

Design, ice surface and capacity

The rink inside the Centre Georges-Vézina measures 200 by 100 feet, the larger "Olympic" size used for international competition rather than the smaller National Hockey League standard. Spectator capacity is listed at approximately 4,651 people, of which around 3,683 are fixed seats; the remaining capacity comes from standing room and flexible seating areas. These features influence game-day sightlines and the atmosphere during major events.

History and name

Opened in 1949, the building was first known locally as the Colisée de Chicoutimi. It was later named for Georges Vézina, a celebrated goaltender originally from Chicoutimi who became a prominent player for the Montreal Canadiens in the early years of professional hockey. The renaming honors Vézina's local origins and his lasting legacy in Canadian hockey history; for biographical context see Georges Vézina and his association with the Montreal Canadiens.

Resident team and activities

The arena is chiefly known as the home of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens hockey club. The team draws regional fans for regular season and playoff games, and the building supports team operations, practices, and junior-level competitions. Beyond hockey, the venue is used for public skating sessions, local tournaments, school events and occasional concerts or community gatherings. For information about the team and league, see ice hockey and the team profile.

Location and significance

The Centre Georges-Vézina occupies an established location within Chicoutimi; geographic coordinates are commonly cited for reference: 48°25′11″N 71°03′36″W. The arena is an enduring piece of regional sporting infrastructure, valued both for its connection to a notable hockey figure and for its role in developing young players in the province. Visitors often note the traditional community atmosphere typical of long-standing Canadian rinks.

Notable facts and distinctions

• The ice surface conforms to Olympic dimensions (200 ft × 100 ft), which affects playing style and tactics compared with NHL-sized rinks.
• Named after a native son, Georges Vézina, the facility links local identity with national hockey history; see background at Georges Vézina and the team history at Montreal Canadiens.
• Administrative and visitor information is available through municipal and venue pages: Chicoutimi, Quebec resources and general venue guides at arena information.

For scheduling, ticketing and community programming, consult the venue's current listings and the Chicoutimi Saguenéens' announcements at the links provided above.