Sports Minister Shona Robison officially opened the £3.9million ice rink in Stevenston, North Ayrshire, where local budding stars can develop their talents.
The Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport cut the ribbon at Auchenharvie Leisure Centre alongside some of North Ayrshire's most promising figure skaters, curlers, ice hockey players and speed skaters.
Ms Robison was joined by the Provost of North Ayrshire, Councillor Pat McPhee, the chairwoman of Sportscotland, Louise Martin CBE, and representatives from local ice clubs for the opening.
With the Commonwealth Games, Winter Olympics and other major sporting events on the horizon, it is hoped that the purpose-built rink will not only be a draw for social skaters but will give talented youngsters the high quality facilities they need to be on top of their game.
Ms Robison, said: "We can't underestimate the valuable role that sport can play in community life and the importance of making sure that people have access to it.
"Facilities such as this will help ensure that people across North Ayrshire have more and better opportunities to participate in sport and ensure that we are setting Scotland on a path to a healthier future."
As part of the official opening event, invited guests were treated to a demonstration on the ice from young sports stars.
Provost McPhee, said: "The fantastic facility replaces a 22-year-old rink which, although popular with social skaters, offered little opportunity for local clubs to train and develop."
The council funded the new sports facility, after it was given the help of a £300,000 grant from Sportscotland.
The rink includes protective glazing, team dugouts, spectator seating and four team changing rooms.
Louise Martin of Sportscotland, said: "Auchenharvie is now able to host local and regional-level ice hockey, ice dance, figure skating, curling and speed skating competitions; as well as allowing club membership to increase."
