In the 1960’s BGSU planned to expand when the Board of Trustees approved the construction of a building that would “improve and advance the health and physical education program on campus.” This building opened in 1967 and is known as the BGSU Ice Arena.
Since then, the BGSU Ice Arena has brought opportunity for both students and the community of Bowling Green. Whether it is ice skating, hockey, curling, or other physical education activities, the Ice Arena is home to many different recreational and competitive activities.
Over the years the Ice Arena has undergone numerous renovations and expansions making it stand out from other arenas around the area. This year, BGSU has big plans to improve and expand facilities. The complete renovation includes:
- New ice plant (including new compressors, chillers, dehumidification system(s) and boilers)
- New lighting over the Main Ice (three times stronger than the current lighting)
- New roof and gutter system
- Masonry cleaning
- Conversion of the Curling Ice to “multi-purpose” ice with boards, glass, and netting for hockey/skating while maintaining three curling lanes
- Renovation of current locker rooms with benching, paint and skate tread
- Addition of four new locker rooms on the footprint of the current Studio Ice
Director of the Ice Arena, Jeff Crawford, emphasized how beneficial these renovations are to BGSU. “These improvements make our facility viable and bring us, the BGSU Ice Arena, in line with other facilities in and around Ohio,” he said.
The Ice Arena is a significant part of the Bowling Green community. It is home to many skating greats such as Scott Hamilton, Alissa Czisny, and Ken Morrow. The University eagerly anticipates this renovation and has high hopes of the new arena.
The last day of operation for the 2009-2010 seasons is on March 28th. The Ice Arena is scheduled to reopen in late summer. For more information, or to contribute to the renovation click on the “Bring Back the Glory” tab on The Department of Recreation and Wellness Web Site.