Thunder Bay’s upcoming indoor turf sports venue has received an official name. Tbaytel has successfully acquired the naming rights for the facility, which is currently under construction adjacent to the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. The establishment will now be known as the Tbaytel Multiplex following approval from the city council. In exchange for the naming rights, Tbaytel is making a $500,000 commitment, with payments of $50,000 per year over the next decade.
During a recent media gathering, Paul Norris, the President and CEO of Tbaytel, expressed the company’s strong belief in the community and the significant impact the facility will have on residents of all ages in Thunder Bay. He emphasized the long-term benefits the multiplex will bring, serving as a core recreational hub for generations to come.
When the Tbaytel Multiplex is finished, it will feature a full-sized turf field suitable for various sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, and cricket. The anticipated opening date is in fall 2026, with an estimated construction cost of approximately $36 million. Mayor Ken Boshcoff highlighted the multiplex’s importance in enhancing the city’s ability to host sports events effectively and attract diverse gatherings.
Thunder Bay has been exploring opportunities to sell naming rights for different facilities, including the Canada Games Complex, the Centennial Botanical Conservatory, and several arenas like the Fort William Gardens. Although the city is in the early stages of this process, Callie Hemsworth, the supervisor of initiatives, marketing, and community support, confirmed that naming rights sponsorships have so far only been secured for the Tbaytel Multiplex.