Burnaby’s popular Confederation Park has just unveiled an exciting new feature: the Sohen Gill Sports Box, a modern covered multi-sport facility designed to boost recreation opportunities year-round.
Replacing the aging open-air lacrosse box, the Sohen Gill Sports Box officially opened to the public on April 15, 2024, bringing a major upgrade to one of Burnaby’s most beloved parks. Featuring a covered, multi-use court, seating for spectators, and flexible space for a wide variety of activities, the new facility promises to be a vibrant hub for local sports, leisure, and community events.
A Major Upgrade for Confederation Park
Located at 250 Willingdon Avenue, Confederation Park has long been a favorite destination for Burnaby residents. The new Sohen Gill Sports Box represents a significant investment in keeping the park active, lively, and welcoming for all ages.
Key features of the facility include:
A full covered roof, allowing year-round use and protection from the elements.
Spectator seating to support community games and events.
Bright, well-lit interiors, thanks to translucent wall panels providing natural daylight.
A versatile multi-use court surface lined for sports like lacrosse, ball hockey, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, and badminton.
Convenient storage areas and open space for casual leisure activities.
Spanning 200 by 85 feet — equivalent to an NHL-sized rink — the facility is sized to accommodate serious play and community events alike.
Recreation for Every Season
The vision behind the Sohen Gill Sports Box was to create a true four-season recreational amenity. Designed to be flexible and welcoming, the box supports an impressive range of sports and activities. Users can look forward to playing lacrosse, basketball, volleyball, and even practicing tai chi within its walls.
The City of Burnaby's recreation team is in the process of finalizing a full schedule of programs, camps, and open play times. With its spacious design and weather protection, the sports box is already seeing high demand from local groups eager to host practices, games, and special events.
Visitors interested in using the facility can check schedules and reservation details on Burnaby's Outdoor Multi-Use Boxes page online.
A Project Years in the Making
Planning for the Confederation Park upgrades dates back to February 2022, when the City identified the need to replace the old lacrosse box. Originally, the plan was to build two covered sports boxes — one at Confederation Park and one at Riverway Sports Complex. However, escalating construction costs meant the project had to be scaled back to prioritize Confederation Park first.
Construction officially began in early 2023, with Mayor Mike Hurley helping to break ground in April. After just over a year of work, the facility welcomed its first players in April 2024. An official dedication ceremony is scheduled for July 13, 2024, featuring family-friendly activities and opportunities to try out sports like lacrosse and basketball.
Funding for the project, which came in around $6.5 million, was supported through Burnaby’s 2023–2027 Capital Plan, with additional funds reallocated from other civic projects.
Honoring a Local Legend: Sohen Gill
The new facility carries a name steeped in Burnaby’s sports history. Sohen Gill, a pioneer in the lacrosse community, grew up playing the game at Confederation Park. Over a distinguished career, he made major contributions as a player, coach, executive, and Commissioner of the Western Lacrosse Association. His induction into the BC Sports Hall of Fame cements his legacy, and naming the new sports box in his honor ensures future generations will know his impact on the sport and the city.
Later this year, Burnaby will also celebrate the official opening of the Jack Crosby Memorial Sports Box at Riverway Sports Complex — another nod to the city’s rich lacrosse tradition.
Curious how the new Sohen Gill Sports Box could enhance life around Confederation Park? We’re keeping a close eye on developments like this to help our clients stay informed about Burnaby’s evolving communities. Want to be one of them?
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