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beach volleyball in red deer

Podcast: Alberta Minister of Tourism and Sport, Andrew Boitchenko

Sep 25, 2026 | 6:53 AM

Alberta’s Ministry of Tourism and Sport made a significant funding announcement Thursday (more here), committing $14 million to 20 projects across the province.

rdnewsNOW and The Everything Red Deer Podcast caught up with Minister Andrew Boitchenko to talk about some of the funded projects.

We also discuss the upcoming World Juniors and what the Oct. 19 separation-related referendum means, as it pertains to that event; plus the World Cup of Hockey in 2028, the Calgary Flames arena project, and the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame.

LISTEN

Statement from Volleyball Alberta:

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Government of Alberta for this investment in volleyball and the Red Deer region,” says Diane Clarke, CEO.

“This funding provides an exciting opportunity to continue our work with Red Deer Polytechnic and explore how quality beach volleyball infrastructure can support athletes, programs, and the broader community for years to come.”

The organization added that it is too early to say the project’s full cost and when it could be completed.

Projects in Red Deer County, Delburne, and Innisfail are also receiving funding

Delburne and District Agricultural Society – $50,864: Delburne and District Agricultural Society will receive funding to replace aging components of the Delburne Agri-Plex arena ice plant system. The upgrades will ensure safe, reliable ice conditions and support the continued operation of this important community recreation facility

Rotary Club of Innisfail – $634,470: Rotary Club of Innisfail will receive funding to construct a public-use bike skills facility designed for riders of all ages and abilities. The project will provide a safe and accessible venue for cycling, scootering, skateboarding and rollerblading while encouraging active recreation and community use.

Dome retrofit for community benefit (Red Deer County) – $1.5 million: Soccer Club Central Alberta will receive funding to replace the existing air-supported dome with a new high-performance structure designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and meet modern energy standards. The project will also add hard court surfaces and a technical centre, expanding year-round capacity for sports, training programs, and tournaments while enhancing recreation opportunities for Albertans.

Ep. 84 of The Everything Red Deer Podcast is sponsored by our friends at Punksgiving Music Festival III. Find out on this episode (and Ep. 83) how you can win a pair of tickets to the show, from us. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.

The podcast is available on all platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart, and Radioplayer Canada.