The Albert Lea City Council approved on Monday that the City Arena’s Red Rink be renamed Carol Colstrup Arena at the request of the Albert Lea Figure Skating Club.

Colstrup was a founding member of the ALFSC and was a coach for more than 50 years, teaching figure skaters and hockey players “the essential skills to be successful on the ice,” according to a news release.

ALFSC President Mary Beth Heimendinger said the Albert Lea Parks and Rec Board approved the request in November and fundraising efforts will begin shortly to purchase three signs from Ad-Art. Heimendinger said the signage will resemble that in Roy Nystrom Arena, the former Blue Rink that was renamed on Nov. 31, 2010. The signage will cost about $1,100.

Heimendinger said the idea to honor Colstrup began last summer at an ALFSC board meeting.

“Colstrup was a figure skating coach for more than 50 years, and our club would not be here without her support,” Heimendinger said. “This is a way to recognize her that is lasting, memorable and will mean something to her.

Heimendinger said the club hopes to dedicate the arena to Colstrup in February and again on March 17 at its annual show.