University of Minnesota Athletics
Mariucci Arena Locker Room Remodel Underway
4/14/2016 12:00:00 AM | Men's Hockey
MINNEAPOLIS (GopherSports.com) - The home of Gopher Hockey will have a new look for the 2016-17 season as the University of Minnesota breaks ground on a renovation project for the Mariucci Arena locker room this week.
The renovation project, funded entirely through private donations, will feature a complete overhaul of the locker room, equipment room and athletic training areas while adding a new team lounge and video room. The team area will nearly double in size upon completion, coming in at an estimated 11,683 square feet from the current area of 6,248 square feet.
"We're thrilled to get this project underway, and it's all possible because of gracious contributions from our alumni and donors. We can't thank them enough for stepping up for our program," Minnesota head coach Don Lucia said. "A lot of people have worked tirelessly on this project, and I think the finished product is going to be really something special for Gopher Hockey."
Mortenson Construction, which previously handled the construction of TCF Bank Stadium and has already broken ground on the new Athletes Village, will oversee the renovation to Mariucci Arena with DLR Group handling architectural designs following its renovation design of Siebert Field. Advent has been contracted to provide design, fabrication and installation of all environmental branding for the project.
Built in 1993, Mariucci Arena has long been considered one of the must-see facilities in college hockey. Since opening its doors, the Gophers are 314-125-46 (.695) at Mariucci Arena while the building will hold its 500th Gopher Hockey game during the upcoming 2016-17 season.
"Mariucci Arena is a historic venue for college hockey, and our new team areas will really enhance that experience for our program and student-athletes," Interim Director of Athletics Beth Goetz said. "With Mortenson Construction sharing our vision for improving Gopher Athletics facilities, we know this project will be something our student-athletes, staff, fans, alumni and donors will certainly be proud to call home for years to come."
The next stage in enhancing Mariucci Arena is already underway as fundraising efforts continue for the planned strength & conditioning/training center as well as an alumni area. To learn more about how can support Gopher Athletics, visit GoldenGopherFund.com.
Minnesota, which won its fifth-straight regular-season conference titles in 2016, will celebrate the 96th year of Gopher Hockey in 2016-17. Student season tickets are already on sale while the general season ticket renewal process will begin in May. To learn more about ticket options, visit MyGopherSports.com or call 612-624-8080.
