Since the end of last season, the City of Geneva has been working to provide the necessary youth cost for an infrastructure which will celebrate its 66th anniversary in November. A look back through the archives of the RTS and the SportVintage association which was interested in the Geneva complex, described as a tool of modernity at the time.
November 28, 1958, the Vernets were born. A new setting at the cutting edge of modernity that is causing a sensation.
“We knew we had the most beautiful one in Switzerland. We were very proud, given that there were only two indoor ice rinks in Switzerland,” exclaims Bernard Giroud, former player of the club.
A complex which constitutes a truly innovative object in the field of building. By its metal frame, a first in Europe, as well as its concrete structure.
“We didn’t necessarily use concrete to build objects of this size. You had to have a certain know-how. It’s an element that stands out. It tells the story of Geneva’s know-how in the manufacture of concrete,” explains Felix Stämpfli, architect.
Cost of this brand new ice rink. 3.5 million francs. A project that will accelerate the arrival of major events in Geneva. In 1961, the world championships were organized there, welcoming up to 12,000 spectators.
Over time, the ice rink has become an essential meeting place in the heart of the city. The Vernets are experiencing many emotions, the rise to the LNA in 2002. Before experiencing the joys of a national title in 2023.
Waiting for White Clover
An ice rink that has lived and now awaits its replacement at Trefle-Blanc.
“When we see that in the summer we have to go and train in Bern or Fribourg, it shows that ultimately we need a new ice rink” relates Arnaud Jacquemet, current GSHC player.
From the old-fashioned charm of Les Vernets to the new technological showcase of Trefle Blanc, Genève-Servette will continue to write the history of Swiss hockey. 120 years of passion that the club will celebrate next year.
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