Everyone thinks a concession stand is a place that sells candy and snacks. For five years however, Ursula (who like Prince, goes by one name) has been proving people wrong. Whether it be her breakfast burritos, meatball sandwiches or spaghetti dinners, The Edge Ice Arena has been spoiled with a not-so-average menu.

All this has made Ursula a very popular woman.
“It’s where all the kids and families live and eat when they’re at the rink,” said Foothills Director of Hockey John Seymour. “I’m there every day and I’d rather eat there than go out for a meal.”

It’s kind of ironic that a concessions stand sells a bunch of junk food (in most cases) because athletes need a proper diet. They need food and energy best served for optimal performance. Ursula understands that and gives them what they need.

“It feels really good because I am helping support what the little athletes need,” she said. “I actually feel like I have a role in their development and with them growing up. It’s really rewarding and they appreciate it so much.”

It may have once surprised her to get thank-you notes or other appreciative gestures, but not anymore. She puts so much heart and dedication into her job that it’s more of a surprise when someone doesn’t thank her.

“I got a letter all the way from Texas once. It said what a wonderful experience I had created they had and how much they appreciated my cooking.”

Her passion is cooking and being retired wasn’t satisfying. Now she stays busy and keeps everyone happy. The rink even considers her when scheduling tournaments.

“They say, ‘No matter what, let’s have the German lady that makes the good breakfast burritos’,” she said with a laugh.
Ursula never really knew anything about hockey before she started at the rink. Now, you can’t keep her away.

“I love everything about hockey now,” Ursula said, quickly mentioning the Avalanche thereafter. “In addition to watching the kids I hardly miss an Avs game. Hockey people are great people.”

No matter what’s going on at the rink that day, win or lose, Ursula is always there with a smile and some fresh-cooked food.

“You can always count on her,” said Seymour. “Parents can drop their kids off knowing they’ll get fed right.”
With how much time some young kids spend at the rink, it’s a good thing.

“The kids are so dedicated,” Ursula said.

Whether she knows it or not, so is she!